Airbag control unit with part number 98221VA210

What does the airbag control unit 98221VA210 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VA210 controls the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. To do this, it evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and, in the event of an accident, decides within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

It monitors the system continuously and displays 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 98221VA210 fail?

The most common cause is that crash data is stored in the 98221VA210 after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. Other causes include aged electronic components, corrosion on plug connections and voltage spikes. With this control unit, deleting the crash data is often not possible; if you would like it deleted, please contact Airbag24 briefly before sending it in.

Over time, electronic components can age and cause faults. Cold solder joints can lead to intermittent contact problems. Identical fault patterns can have different causes, so it is worth taking a close look before any action is taken.

Moisture and corrosion on plug connections disrupt the contact, and voltage spikes can stress the electronics, for example when the battery is weak or the vehicle is started with a jump start.

Only the evaluation of the fault memory shows whether one of these causes is present.

How can you tell that the 98221VA210 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster indicates a defect in the 98221VA210 when it lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition, there is an error message in the instrument cluster, a diagnostic tool without a connection to the control unit and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

Even an intermittent light indicates a fault. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not deploy.

Which vehicles is the 98221VA210 fitted in?

The control unit 98221VA210 is used in vehicles of the Subaru brand. It is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021).

The individual vehicles are shown in this list:

• Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only confirms that it is the correct unit. If the numbers do not match, clarify this before sending the unit in. Also have the fault memory read out before you remove the unit. Only this shows whether the control unit is defective or a connector or cable is the cause. A defect cannot be confirmed before the fault memory has been read.

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 98221VA210 work?

For the repair of the 98221VA210, first have the fault memory read out and include the report in the parcel. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit, create a repair order online and send in the securely packed unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

This order is there for safety. Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and carries out a function test. Then your own unit is returned to you.

If you would like the crash data deleted, please contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in.

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 98221VA210 get to Airbag24?

You send the 98221VA210 as a parcel, or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 sends it back by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit so that it is shockproof.