AutoCodes – Generic – B1017

B1017 Code - Occupant Sensor Control Unit

Quick Answer

The Occupant Sensor Control Unit suppresses the deployment of passenger air bag when the condition of the passenger seat is empty or child and child-seat. Common causes include Faulty Occupant Sensor Control Unit, Occupant Sensor Control Unit harness is open or shorted, Occupant Sensor Control Unit circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: B1017 indicates Occupant Sensor Control Unit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Occupant Sensor Control Unit, Occupant Sensor Control Unit harness is open or shorted, Occupant Sensor Control Unit circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 17,869

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 11, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1017 Description

The Occupant Sensor Control Unit suppresses the deployment of passenger air bag when the condition of the passenger seat is empty or child and child-seat. And turns on the cut-off telltale lamp when the condition of the passenger seat is child-seat and child. In the case of malfunction, the blinking of the SRS air bag warning lamp reports the malfunction to the driver and by the on board self-diagnosis system. This Occupant Sensor Control Unit classifies occupant in the passenger seat and detects electrical malfunctions in Occupant Classification System, and transmits malfunction information to air bag control unit.
It is integrated into the seat sensor mat and detects the occupants with Occupant Classification System (OCS) control unit that classifies the occupants.

OBDII Code B1017 - Occupant Sensor Control Unit - AutoCodes.com — B1017 Code - Occupant Sensor Control Unit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1017?

Faulty Occupant Sensor Control Unit
Occupant Sensor Control Unit harness is open or shorted
Occupant Sensor Control Unit circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Diagnosis Sensor Unit

How to Fix the DTC B1017?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1017 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.

Need more information about the B1017 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1017 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1017 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1017 Buick — Output Driver Module Performance
B1017 Cadillac — Output Driver Module Performance
B1017 Chevrolet — Output Driver Module Performance
B1017 GMC — Output Driver Module Performance
B1017 Infiniti — Occupant Sensor Control Unit
B1017 Nissan — Occupant Sensor Control Unit

Precautions for SRS “AIR BAG” and “SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER” Service

Never probe the electrical connectors on air bag, side air curtain modules or seat belts.
Never disassemble or tamper with safety belt buckle/retractor pretensioners, adaptive load limiting retractors, safety belt inflators, or probe the electrical connectors.
Do not use electrical test equipment to check SRS circuits unless instructed to in this Service Manual.
Before servicing the SRS, turn ignition switch OFF, disconnect both battery cables and wait at least 3 minutes. For approximately 3 minutes after the cables are removed, it is still possible for the air bag and seat belt pre-tensioner to deploy. Therefore, do not work on any SRS connectors or wires until at least 3 minutes have passed.

Failure to follow this instruction may result in the accidental deployment of these modules, which increases the risk of serious personal injury or death.

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 B1017 Code

1. What does OBDII code B1017 indicate?

The B1017 code relates to a fault in the Occupant Sensor Control Unit, typically found in the vehicle's airbag system.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1017?

Common symptoms of code B1017 may include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard, as well as potential issues with the airbag system's functionality.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1017?

Causes of code B1017 can include a faulty occupant sensor control unit, damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, or a problem with the airbag module itself.

4. How serious is OBDII code B1017?

Code B1017 is a serious issue as it involves the airbag system, which is crucial for occupant safety in the event of a collision. It is important to address this code promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbags.

5. Can I continue driving with OBDII code B1017 present?

It is not recommended to continue driving with the B1017 code active, as it indicates a potential problem with the airbag system. Driving with a faulty airbag system can put occupants at risk in the event of an accident.

6. How can OBDII code B1017 be diagnosed?

Diagnosing code B1017 typically involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code. Additionally, a thorough inspection of the occupant sensor control unit and related components may be necessary.

7. What are some repair tips for OBDII code B1017?

Repairing B1017 may involve replacing the faulty occupant sensor control unit, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing any issues with the airbag module. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.

8. Can I reset OBDII code B1017 on my own?

While you may be able to clear the B1017 code using an OBDII scanner, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring. Simply clearing the code without proper diagnosis and repair may lead to safety risks.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B1017?

The cost of repairing code B1017 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, the labor rates in your area, and the cost of any replacement parts needed. It is advisable to obtain quotes from reputable mechanics or repair shops.

10. Is OBDII code B1017 covered by any warranties?

If your vehicle is still under warranty, the repair for OBDII code B1017 may be covered depending on the terms of your warranty. Check with your manufacturer or warranty provider to determine if the repair is eligible for coverage.