Airbag control unit with part number 98221VA190

What does the airbag control unit 98221VA190 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VA190 takes charge of controlling the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, determines within milliseconds in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit reports faults via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. Monitoring runs continuously throughout.

Why does the control unit 98221VA190 fail?

With 98221VA190, stored crash data after an accident are considered the most common cause, even if no airbag has triggered; other possible causes include ageing, moisture and voltage spikes. With this control unit, deleting the crash data is often not possible; if you want it deleted, get in touch with Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in.

Crash data remain stored in the unit as a record, and a normal diagnostic tool cannot delete them.

The remaining causes concern the electronics and their connections. Aged components, cold solder joints, and moisture and corrosion on plug connections can cause faults.

Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, also count. Which cause applies is only shown by the examination.

How can you tell that the 98221VA190 is defective?

A defect in the 98221VA190 shows up as an airbag warning light in the instrument cluster that stays on permanently or intermittently. A fault message in the instrument cluster, a missing connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit, or a fault memory that cannot be cleared also indicate a defect.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then possibly not deploy. Have the finding checked promptly as soon as the light comes on.

Which vehicles is the 98221VA190 fitted in?

The control unit 98221VA190 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021). You carry out the comparison with your car using the part number on the removed unit.

The following vehicles are on record for this control unit:

• Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only confirms that you have the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand. Only the result shows whether the control unit is defective or a plug or 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 98221VA190 work?

When repairing the 98221VA190, you first read out the fault memory, disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send in the unit, packed well.

You enclose the log of the fault memory with the unit. If you want the crash data deleted, get in touch with Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and runs a functional test. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days. Afterwards, you receive your own, repaired unit back.

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 98221VA190 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221VA190 as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it to you by UPS.

You place the printed repair order in the parcel and pad the unit so that it is shock-resistant.