Airbag control unit with part number 98221VA170

What does the airbag control unit 98221VA170 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VA170 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. It processes the signals from the crash sensors, determines within milliseconds in the event of an accident the triggering of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the system continuously. It shows faults via the airbag warning light.

After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

For you, the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster is the visible feedback on the condition of the system.

Why does the control unit 98221VA170 fail?

Stored crash data is considered the most common cause, even if no airbag has been triggered. With this control unit, erasing the crash data is often not possible; if you would like it erased, contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in, and Airbag24 then checks the part number. Other causes are aged components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connectors, and voltage spikes.

A standard diagnostic tool cannot erase the crash data, and repairing a defect remains possible in the normal way.

Aged components and cold solder joints can cause malfunctions, regardless of any accident.

Moisture and corrosion disrupt the contact at plug connectors. Voltage spikes arise, for example, from a weak battery or when starting with a jump start.

How can you tell that the 98221VA170 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up constantly or only intermittently if there is a defect in the control unit 98221VA170. A fault message may also appear in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool may fail to find the control unit, or the fault memory cannot be erased.

If these signs occur, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not be able to deploy in an emergency. In this case, have the system checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221VA170 fitted in?

The 98221VA170 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021). Check whether your car is one of them using the vehicles listed.

The vehicles are listed individually here:

• Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021)

A comparison and a diagnosis will help you. Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. That only confirms that it is the right unit. Also have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only that 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 98221VA000, 98221VA010, 98221VA030, 98221VA050, 98221VA060, 98221VA090.

How does the repair of the 98221VA170 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log, then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit 98221VA170. Afterwards, create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Airbag24 tests the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and carries out a function test; processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

The order is mandatory for safety reasons. First comes the read-out, then disconnecting the battery, and finally the removal.

If you would like the crash data erased, contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in. Afterwards your own unit is 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 98221VA170 get to Airbag24?

You send the unit in as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 returns the control unit 98221VA170 by UPS after the repair.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel, and pack the control unit shockproof.