Airbag control unit with part number 98221VA090

What does the airbag control unit 98221VA090 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VA090 is the control unit for the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides within milliseconds in the event of an accident whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the entire system. It reports faults via the airbag warning light.

This monitoring runs in the background for as long as the vehicle is in operation. After an accident, the unit stores crash data and then locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221VA090 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other possible causes are ageing electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or after a jump start.

An impact without airbag deployment therefore does not mean the unit has stored nothing. Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair.

The other causes lie in the electronics and at the plug connections. Moisture and corrosion interrupt contacts, and cold solder joints can disturb connections. The test shows which cause applies to your unit.

How can you tell that the 98221VA090 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition, a fault message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

If such a defect is present, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger in an emergency. Please have the system checked.

Which vehicles is the 98221VA090 fitted in?

The control unit 98221VA090 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021).

Below is the list of these vehicles:

• Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page to make sure you identify the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand. Only the log 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 98221VA110, 98221VA180, 98221VC031, 98221VC200, 98221VC210.

How does the repair of the 98221VA090 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and only after that remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send the unit in, well packed. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Your own unit is then 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 98221VA090 get to Airbag24?

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

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