Airbag control unit with part number 98221VA130

What does the airbag control unit 98221VA130 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VA130 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) in the Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and decides in an accident, within fractions of a second, which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

In everyday use it monitors the system continuously and shows faults via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221VA130 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 causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start.

The crash data is recorded regardless of whether an airbag has deployed. Since a normal diagnostic tool cannot remove it, the entry stays visible in the fault memory.

The other causes tend to develop gradually. Old components and cold solder joints cause contact problems that come and go, while moisture attacks plug connections.

How can you tell that the 98221VA130 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up constantly or intermittently, an error message appears, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, or the fault memory cannot be cleared. In a critical situation, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not be able to deploy.

The warning light is the clearest sign, because the system itself indicates that it has detected a fault. It is therefore worth a look after switching on the ignition.

If only the connection to the diagnostic tool is missing, the cause is not necessarily the control unit. Cables and connectors can also interrupt the contact.

Which vehicles is the 98221VA130 fitted in?

The control unit 98221VA130 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021).

The following models are on record for this part number:

• Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page; this only confirms that you have the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only that shows whether the control unit itself is at fault or whether a connector or a 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 98221VA130 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Next create a repair order online and send the well-packed unit in. Checking, repairing and testing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence is fixed for safety reasons: read out first, then disconnect the battery, then remove.

At Airbag24 the unit is checked on the test bench. Defective components are replaced, crash data is erased, and a function test is carried out. The 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 98221VA130 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221VA130 as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it to you by UPS.

Put the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the unit shockproof.