Airbag control unit with part number 98221VC071

What does the airbag control unit 98221VC071 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VC071 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident within milliseconds whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously. It indicates faults via the airbag warning light.

The crash sensors supply the unit with acceleration values, which it evaluates without interruption. On this basis it decides whether triggering is necessary, and it recognises when components of the system no longer work as intended.

After an accident the unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221VC071 fail?

With the control unit 98221VC071, the most common cause after an accident is stored crash data, even if no airbag has deployed. With this control unit, deleting the crash data is often not possible; anyone who wants them deleted should contact Airbag24 briefly before sending it in. Other causes are aged components, cold solder joints, moisture at plug connectors and voltage spikes.

The further causes in detail:

• aged electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion at plug connectors
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or after jump-starting

A normal diagnostic tool cannot delete the crash data. Which of the causes mentioned is actually present is shown only by the examination of the removed unit.

How can you tell that the 98221VC071 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently if the 98221VC071 has a fault. Fault messages, a lack of contact with the diagnostic tool or a fault memory that cannot be cleared may also appear. Then airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger in an emergency.

The airbag warning light is the most direct indication of the state of the system; it reports a fault in the restraint system even when the vehicle seems to drive normally.

A lack of contact with the diagnostic tool may also be due to cables or plugs. The fault memory therefore provides clarity before any further steps are decided.

Which vehicles is the 98221VC071 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 98221VC071 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VB (from 2021); Subaru Levorg VN (from 2020).

The following vehicles are known to us for this part number:

• Subaru WRX VB (from 2021)
• Subaru Levorg VN (from 2020)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This way you make sure that you have the correct unit in front of you. Also have the fault memory read out before removal, because only this finding shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221VC030, 98221VC031, 98221VC200, 98221VC210.

How does the repair of the 98221VC071 work?

With the control unit 98221VC071, first have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit, create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and carries out a function test. Afterwards your own unit goes back to you.

If you want the crash data deleted, 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 98221VC071 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221VC071 as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS. Place the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the unit shock-resistant.

A sturdy box with enough filling material protects the unit on the way. The repair order in the parcel makes it easier to match.