Airbag control unit with part number 98221SG020

What does the airbag control unit 98221SG020 do?

The airbag control unit 98221SG020 controls the restraint system (SRS) in Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and determines within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

It also monitors the system continuously and indicates faults via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After a crash, the unit stores crash data and locks itself. Only the repair lifts the lock.

Why does the control unit 98221SG020 fail?

The fault can be caused by crash data that remained in the memory after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. A normal diagnostic tool cannot delete it.

Crash data of this kind creates a fault condition that persists without any intervention on the unit.

In addition, aged electronic components play a role, as do cold solder joints and moisture and corrosion at plug connections. Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, can also affect the unit.

How can you tell that the 98221SG020 is defective?

A defect in the 98221SG020 can be indicated by the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which stays on permanently or intermittently. There may also be fault messages in the instrument cluster and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

Typical signs are:

• Airbag warning light staying on permanently or intermittently
• Fault messages in the instrument cluster
• No connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit
• A fault memory that cannot be cleared

As long as these signs persist, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to trigger in an emergency. Therefore, check the cause promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221SG020 fitted in?

The 98221SG020 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SJ (2012-2016) and SJ Facelift (2016-2019).

The following models belong to this part number:

• Subaru Forester SJ (2012-2016)
• Subaru Forester SJ Facelift (2016-2019)

Before removal, have the fault memory read out to rule out a plug or cable as the cause. Then compare the number on the label of the removed unit with the list.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221-SJ370, 98221SG250, 98221SJ001.

How does the repair of the 98221SG020 work?

Before removal, have the fault memory read out, enclose the log and disconnect the battery. Then remove the control unit, create a repair order online and send the unit in. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 examines the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test.

You then receive your own unit back.

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 98221SG020 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221SG020 to Airbag24 as a parcel, or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 returns it by UPS after the repair.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel, and you pack the unit shockproof.