Airbag control unit with part number 98221VA240

What does the airbag control unit 98221VA240 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VA240 forms the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) in Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident, in an instant, whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system permanently. It shows faults via the airbag warning light; after an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit runs along during operation and checks the connected components. It stores anomalies in the fault memory so that they can be read out later.

Because the decision on triggering rests with it, this component belongs to the safety core of the vehicle.

Why does the control unit 98221VA240 fail?

Stored crash data is the most common cause with 98221VA240, even without an airbag being triggered; a standard diagnostic tool cannot erase it. 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 so that the part number can be checked. Aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connectors, and voltage spikes are also possible causes.

The presence of crash data says nothing yet about the condition of the electronics. Only the fault memory shows whether anything inside the unit is damaged.

Aged components and cold solder joints sit inside the unit itself. Moisture, corrosion and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, act on it from outside.

How can you tell that the 98221VA240 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, signalling a fault in the 98221VA240. A fault message in the instrument cluster may also appear, as may a diagnostic tool that cannot establish a connection to the control unit. In an emergency, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

The light does not name a component; it only shows that the system has registered a deviation. If it lights up, have the vehicle checked soon.

Which fault is present is recorded in the fault memory. It can only be read out with a diagnostic tool.

Which vehicles is the 98221VA240 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 98221VA240 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VA (2014-2021). You can tell whether your car is meant by comparing it with this information.

The following vehicle is assigned:

• 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 right unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand. Only this finding 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 98221VA240 work?

First have the fault memory read out; you enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery, only afterwards remove the control unit 98221VA240, create the repair order online and send in the unit well packed. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 examines the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and carries out a function test. 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 98221VA240 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221VA240 to Airbag24 by parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. You receive it back by UPS after the repair.

The printed repair order belongs in the parcel, and the unit is packed shockproof.