Airbag control unit with part number 98221SG170

What does the airbag control unit 98221SG170 do?

The airbag control unit 98221SG170 belongs to the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. In a crash it calculates which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners trigger, and for this it keeps the crash sensors in view. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Even in normal operation it works unobtrusively in the background. It shows faults via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

Why does the control unit 98221SG170 fail?

Stored crash data after an accident is the most common cause, even if no airbag has deployed. On this control unit, erasing the crash data is often not possible, so please contact Airbag24 briefly before sending it in so that the number can be checked. Further causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

A normal diagnostic tool cannot reach this data. Repair of a defect nevertheless remains possible in every case.

Moisture attacks plug connections, solder joints can give way over time, and voltage spikes, for example from weak batteries or jump-starting, stress the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221SG170 is defective?

On the 98221SG170, the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently when there is a defect. Fault messages in the instrument cluster, a missing connection to the diagnostic tool and a fault memory that cannot be cleared are further signs. Then airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly fail to trigger in an emergency.

A fault that occurs only intermittently is still a finding that should be clarified promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221SG170 fitted in?

At Subaru, the 98221SG170 belongs to several vehicles. The following are assigned: Subaru Forester SJ (2012-2016) and SJ Facelift (2016-2019).

You can compare your vehicle directly with the list there.

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

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only confirms that the right unit is present. Read out the fault memory beforehand; only this result shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or a cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221SG001, 98221SG010, 98221SG020, 98221SG030, 98221SG040, 98221SG050.

How does the repair of the 98221SG170 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the 98221SG170. Afterwards create a repair order online and pack the unit carefully before sending it in. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

At Airbag24, the team examines the unit on the test bench and repairs defective components. A function test follows.

If you would like the crash data erased, please contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in.

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 98221SG170 get to Airbag24?

A parcel is enough to send the unit to Airbag24, or you have the unit collected by UPS for an extra charge. The return after repair is also by UPS.

The printed copy of the repair order goes into the parcel, and the packaging protects the unit from knocks.