22: Front Airbags Deployed

Stored crash data

What 22 means

When the control unit decides a frontal crash is happening, it sends firing current to the front airbags and the seat belt pretensioners at the same time. Right then it writes a record of that firing output. Code 22 is that record, and it describes something the module already did rather than a problem it is currently measuring.

Deployment records are built to survive. Pulling the battery does not affect them, a scan tool clear will not remove them, and the airbag lamp stays lit as long as the record is in memory. Every module that has fired holds one, which is why a used control unit from a wrecked car usually shows this code.

Common causes

• A frontal collision severe enough for the control unit to fire the front restraints
• Front airbags and pretensioners already deployed in the vehicle's history
• A used control unit installed from a car that had deployed
• A module reinstalled after a repair without the crash data being cleared
• Restraints fired during salvage handling of the vehicle

Crash data or hardware fault?

Code 22 is stored crash data, plain and simple. It records a deployment that already took place and stays in memory until it is cleared with the right equipment. Circuit codes are the opposite: they report live resistance and continuity readings and disappear as soon as the wiring reads normal again.

Does our reset clear it?

Here the mail-in module reset is the actual repair, once the car is put back together. Replace the deployed front airbags and pretensioners, repair any harness damage, and check the front sensors in the impact area. Then pull the control unit and ship it to us. We clear the stored deployment record and send the module back ready to install.

Which makes throw it

Subaru writes code 22 for the front airbag firing output. The definition includes pretensioners, which is worth remembering when pricing a repair, since the belts have fired too and have to be replaced along with the airbags.

What to do next

Inventory every part that fired before you think about the module, because the system reports anything missing as soon as it powers up. Front airbags and front pretensioners both need replacing with genuine OEM parts. Inspect the harness and front sensors in the crushed area while the front end is apart. Once the car is whole, send the control unit in for reset, and call 501-988-0611 if you need Subaru airbags or seat belts. Related codes: 21, 26, B1BC7.