Airbag Control Module-Replacement Parts Procedure Change (07-163-19)

Publication date: 2019-12-05
Reference number: 07-163-19

AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE-REPLACEMENT PARTS PROCEDURE CHANGE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 07-163-19, Date of Issue: December 05, 2019

SUBARU:

2015-17 Legacy and Outback

APPLICABILITY

2015-17MY Legacy and Outback

INTRODUCTION

This Service Information Bulletin announces IMPORTANT changes to the parts ordering and Service Procedures for replacement passenger airbag modules and airbag control modules used in the models listed above. The change is due to discontinuation of the original equipment passenger airbag module assemblies used in 2015-17MY vehicles. The replacement passenger airbag module assemblies for the 2015-17 MY Legacy and Outback will now be the same part used in 2018MY Legacy and Outback. The 2018MY Legacy and Outback also utilizes a different airbag control module than the 2015-17 MY Legacy and Outback. The 2018MY passenger airbag module assembly is now specified for 2015-18MY vehicles. As a result, whenever installing the 2018MY passenger airbag module on a 2015-17MY vehicle, the airbag control module AND airbag module assembly MUST be replaced together as a matching set.

PART INFORMATION

REMINDER : Always order the most up-to-date replacement parts based on the specific VIN being repaired.

IMPORTANT: The new (2015-18MY) passenger side airbag module assembly p.n. is 98271AL03A ("QP" ID Code). When installing this part into a 2015-17MY Legacy or Outback, the corresponding p.n. airbag control module MUST also be installed with it. see the flow chart on pg. 2 .

CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.

SERVICE PROCEDURE/INFORMATION

REMINDER: Customer satisfaction and retention starts with performing quality repairs.

The service procedures for airbag control module and passenger side airbag module assembly replacement remain unchanged. Use the flow chart below as a replacement part guide when replacement of the passenger's airbag module and/or airbag control module is required. Always refer to the applicable Service Manual and review the full requirements of the repair being performed. The Service Manual procedures contain information critical to performing an effective repair the first time and every time. This includes but is not limited to: important SAFETY precautions, proper inspection criteria, necessary special tools, required processes and related one-time-use parts needed for a complete and lasting repair.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.