Airbag control unit with part number 98221SJ490

What does the airbag control unit 98221SJ490 do?

The airbag control unit 98221SJ490 is the central control unit of the restraint system for Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and determines within milliseconds in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

At the same time it monitors all components of the system continuously. It indicates faults via the airbag warning light.

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

Why does the control unit 98221SJ490 fail?

The most common cause of a fault on the 98221SJ490 is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag was deployed. Other causes are ageing electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase this crash data. Airbag24 erases it during repair.

Ageing components and cold solder joints can impair the function. Moisture and corrosion at plugs disrupt the connection, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, strain the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221SJ490 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster indicates a defect in the 98221SJ490 when it stays on permanently or intermittently. The other signs also point to a fault in the restraint system.

The warning light is the clearest warning sign. As long as it is lit, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to deploy in an emergency.

The other signs include:

• error message in the instrument cluster
• no connection between diagnostic tool and control unit
• fault memory cannot be cleared

Which vehicles is the 98221SJ490 fitted in?

The 98221SJ490 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SK (2018-2021) and SK Facelift (from 2021).

The overview shows the models assigned to this part number:

• 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, and you will know it is the right unit. Whether the unit is defective or a plug or cable is the cause is shown only by the fault memory read out. Have it read out before removal.

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

How does the repair of the 98221SJ490 work?

For the repair of the 98221SJ490, you first read out the fault memory and enclose the log. Then you disconnect the battery, remove the control unit and create a repair order online.

Pack the unit well and send it in. Airbag24 checks it on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test.

Processing at Airbag24 takes 3–4 working days. Afterwards your own unit goes back 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 98221SJ490 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221SJ490 in as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit shock-proof.