Airbag control unit with part number 98221VC220

What does the airbag control unit 98221VC220 do?

The airbag control unit 98221VC220 coordinates the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It reads the crash sensors, determines within milliseconds in a crash which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are to be triggered, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit reports faults in the system via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. This lets the driver know that the restraint system is not in order.

This function is decisive for safety in an emergency, because without the control unit airbags and seatbelt pretensioners cannot trigger reliably.

Why does the control unit 98221VC220 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even when no airbag has deployed. With this control unit, erasing the crash data is often not possible; if you want it erased, contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in, and Airbag24 will then check the part number. Other causes are aged electronics, cold solder joints, corrosion at plug connections and voltage spikes.

The further causes in detail:

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

Whether one of these causes applies cannot be determined without an investigation.

How can you tell that the 98221VC220 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or intermittently. In addition there is a fault message in the instrument cluster, no connection to the diagnostic tool, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

If the warning light stays on permanently or only comes on from time to time, this points to a fault in the restraint system. During such a defect, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly fail to trigger in an emergency.

Please have the warning clarified promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221VC220 fitted in?

The control unit 98221VC220 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru WRX VB (from 2021); Subaru Levorg VN (from 2020).

Here is the vehicle list at a glance:

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

On the one hand, it is worth comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page; it only ensures that you have the right unit in front of you. On the other hand, have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only that 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 98221VC030, 98221VC031, 98221VC200, 98221VC210.

How does the repair of the 98221VC220 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Airbag24 then tests it on the test bench, repairs defective components and carries out a function test.

The processing time at Airbag24 is usually 3–4 working days; this time applies only to testing, repairing and function testing.

If you want the crash data erased, 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 98221VC220 get to Airbag24?

The unit goes as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, UPS brings the unit from Airbag24 to you.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel, and the unit should be packed shock-proof.