AutoCodes – Buick – B0173 Buick

B0173 Buick Code - Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit

Quick Answer

Air temperature sensors allow the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module to monitor the temperature of the discharge air in the HVAC ducts. Common causes include Faulty Output Air Temperature Sensor 1, Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means: B0173 Buick indicates Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Output Air Temperature Sensor 1, Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?: The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

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Code Popularity 1,489

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 10, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0173 Buick Description

Air temperature sensors allow the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module to monitor the temperature of the discharge air in the HVAC ducts. The module applies 5 volts to internal input resistors that are connected to the signal circuits of the air temperature sensors. The module provides ground to the air temperature sensors through the low reference circuit. The HVAC control module monitors the voltage drops across the air temperature sensors and uses the inputs for automatic control calculations. When the duct air temperatures are cold, the resistances of the sensors are high and the voltage signals are high. When the duct air temperatures are hot, the resistances of the sensors are low and the voltage signals are low. The HVAC control module converts the voltage values to count values where 1 volt is approximately equal to 51 counts.

OBDII Code B0173 Buick - Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B0173 Buick Code - Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0173 Buick?

Faulty Output Air Temperature Sensor 1
Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B0173 Buick?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B0173 05: Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Short to Battery or Open
B0173 02: Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Short to Ground

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0173 Buick code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B0173 Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0173 for Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit in a Buick?

- Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, decreased engine performance, and issues with the air conditioning system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0173 in a Buick related to the Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit?

- The code B0173 in a Buick can be triggered by a faulty output air temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or a problem with the sensor circuit.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0173 related to the Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit in my Buick?

- Diagnosing the code involves checking the sensor's wiring and connectors for damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and ensuring proper sensor operation.

4. Can I continue driving my Buick with OBDII code B0173 for Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit?

- It is not recommended to drive your Buick with this fault code, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potentially cause further damage.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B0173 for Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit in my Buick?

- Repair options include replacing the faulty output air temperature sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the fault code with an OBDII scanner.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code B0173 in my Buick make the issue go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B0173 related to the Output Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit in a Buick?

- Depending on your mechanical skills and tools, you may be able to replace the sensor or check the wiring yourself. However, it is recommended to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and repair.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0173 in a Buick at a dealership or repair shop?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the specific issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor at a dealership or repair shop.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid encountering OBDII code B0173 in a Buick?

- Regularly inspecting and maintaining the air temperature sensor, checking for loose or damaged wiring, and ensuring timely vehicle servicing can help prevent issues leading to this fault code.

10. Will OBDII code B0173 affect my Buick's emissions or cause it to fail an emissions test?

- Yes, this fault code can affect your vehicle's emissions and may cause it to fail an emissions test. It is important to address the issue promptly to ensure compliance with emissions regulations.