Airbag control unit with part number 98221SJ240

What does the airbag control unit 98221SJ240 do?

The airbag control unit 98221SJ240 coordinates the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It reads the crash sensors and, in an impact, decides within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

At the same time, it checks the system continuously. If it finds a fault, it reports this via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident, the unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221SJ240 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. Aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes are also possible causes.

A standard diagnostic tool cannot erase the crash data. The fault therefore remains until the control unit has been checked and repaired.

Voltage spikes arise, for example, from a weak battery or when a jump start is connected. Which cause applies to a particular unit cannot be said without examining it.

How can you tell that the 98221SJ240 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or intermittently. In addition, an error message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

The light shows the fault by itself as soon as the system detects one. Take it seriously, even if it only comes on intermittently.

If there is no connection to the diagnostic tool, that is a further sign of a fault in the control unit or in its wiring.

Which vehicles is the 98221SJ240 fitted in?

The 98221SJ240 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SK (2018-2021) and SK Facelift (from 2021).

The vehicles for which this part number is recorded in our data are listed here:

• Subaru Forester SK (2018-2021)
• Subaru Forester SK Facelift (from 2021)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page, so that you have the right unit. Also have the fault memory read out, because only that log shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 1523004370, 98221FC210, 98221SJ000, 98221SJ001.

How does the repair of the 98221SJ240 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. After that, create a repair order online before sending the unit in. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the control unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, deletes the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Afterwards your own unit goes back to you.

The 3–4 working days relate only to checking, repairing and testing at Airbag24.

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 98221SJ240 get to Airbag24?

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

Place the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the unit so it is shock-resistant.