Airbag control unit with part number 98221SC020

What does the airbag control unit 98221SC020 do?

The airbag control unit 98221SC020 is part of the restraint system (SRS) at Subaru. It reads the signals from the crash sensors and, in an accident, selects within milliseconds the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners that deploy.

The system is constantly monitored by the control unit. If it detects a fault, it reports this via the airbag warning light.

After an accident, it records crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221SC020 fail?

The 98221SC020 most often fails because of crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. Aged electronics, cold solder joints, moisture or corrosion at plug connections and voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start are further possible causes.

Crash data stays in the unit because a standard diagnostic tool cannot erase it. This applies even when nothing conspicuous can be seen on the vehicle any more.

Beyond that, ageing, poorly soldered contacts, corrosion and unusual voltages in the vehicle electrical system should be mentioned.

How can you tell that the 98221SC020 is defective?

Typically the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition, the instrument cluster shows a fault message, the diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit 98221SC020, and the fault memory cannot be erased.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy. Even if the car otherwise runs unremarkably, this risk remains.

Which vehicles is the 98221SC020 fitted in?

A comparison with the list shows whether your car is affected. The control unit 98221SC020 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SH Facelift (2010-2013) and SH (2008-2010).

For this number we have recorded these vehicles:

• Subaru Forester SH Facelift (2010-2013)
• Subaru Forester SH (2008-2010)

Comparing the part number on the unit with this page only confirms that you have removed the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out before removal, because only this record shows whether the control unit is defective or a plug or cable is causing the fault.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 150300-0940, 98221-SC130, 98221SC030, 98221SC040, 98221SC041, 98221SC080.

How does the repair of the 98221SC020 work?

First have the fault memory read out and keep the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the 98221SC020 and create your repair order online. Pack the unit well and send it in; Airbag24 checks it, replaces defective components, erases the crash data and carries out a function test, after which your own unit is sent back.

At Airbag24, processing usually takes 3–4 working days. This period refers solely to testing, repair and testing in-house.

Our repairs come with 2 years' statutory liability for defects. The repaired control unit comes back with all vehicle data and is ready for use as soon as it is refitted — no coding or programming is required.

How does the control unit 98221SC020 get to Airbag24?

The control unit 98221SC020 reaches Airbag24 either as a parcel or by a UPS collection that you book for an extra charge. Returns are made by UPS after the repair.

Print the repair order and enclose it with the parcel; protect the unit with shockproof padding.