Airbag control unit with part number 98221SG060

What does the airbag control unit 98221SG060 do?

The airbag control unit 98221SG060 coordinates the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. Based on the crash sensors, it decides within milliseconds in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and it keeps watch over the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Faults are reported via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

The monitoring works in the background for as long as the vehicle is in operation.

Why does the control unit 98221SG060 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has triggered; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other possible causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connectors, and voltage spikes.

Crash data is not easy to spot, because the vehicle appears inconspicuous after the event. That is why reading out the memory is the usual first step.

The other causes tend to develop gradually and can only be narrowed down by a test.

How can you tell that the 98221SG060 is defective?

A defect shows up as the airbag warning light lighting up permanently or from time to time, as fault messages in the instrument cluster, as a diagnostic tool without a connection to the control unit, or as a fault memory that cannot be cleared. Then airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger in an emergency.

Each of these signs on its own indicates that something is wrong with the system.

The warning light should therefore be taken seriously and not regarded as merely a hint about comfort functions.

Which vehicles is the 98221SG060 fitted in?

The 98221SG060 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SJ (2012-2016) and SJ Facelift (2016-2019).

The following list shows the vehicles that are stored for this part number.

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

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page; this only clarifies whether you have the right unit. Then have the fault memory read out, because only the result shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

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

How does the repair of the 98221SG060 work?

First have the fault memory read out, then disconnect the battery and then remove the control unit. You create the repair order online, pack the unit well and send it in. Checking, repairing and the function test at Airbag24 usually take 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, deletes the crash data and carries out a function test. Afterwards your own unit is returned to you.

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 98221SG060 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221SG060 in as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 returns it to you by UPS.

The repair order must be printed and placed in the parcel, and the unit must be packed shock-proof.