AutoCodesChevrolet – U0170 Chevrolet

U0170 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the high speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module, Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module harness is open or shorted, Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module 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
U0170 Chevrolet indicates Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module, Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module harness is open or shorted, Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 11,417
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 02, 2020
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code U0170 Chevrolet Description

Modules connected to the high speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the modules. The modules have prerecorded information about what messages are needed to be exchanged on the serial data circuits, for each virtual network. The messages are supervised and also, some periodic messages are used by the receiver module as an availability indication of the transmitter module. The supervision time-out period is 250 ms. Each message contains the identification number of the transmitter module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when a periodic message from the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module has not been received.
OBDII Code U0170 Chevrolet - Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module - AutoCodes.com
U0170 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0170 Chevrolet?

  • Faulty Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module
  • Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module harness is open or shorted
  • Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0170 Chevrolet?

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 U0170 Chevrolet 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 U0170 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0170 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0170 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 U0170 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0170 in a Chevrolet related to the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, issues with the passenger airbag system, and potential loss of communication with the sensor module.

2. What are some possible causes of the U0170 code indicating a lost communication with the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module in a Chevrolet?

- Potential causes may include a faulty sensor module, damaged wiring or connectors, software issues, or a communication network malfunction within the vehicle.

3. How can I diagnose the U0170 code in a Chevrolet related to the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module?

- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific code, checking the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the sensor module, and ensuring proper communication on the vehicle's network.

4. Are there any safety concerns associated with the U0170 code indicating a lost communication with the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module in a Chevrolet?

- Yes, as the passenger presence detection sensor is crucial for the proper functioning of the airbag system, it is essential to address this issue promptly to ensure the safety of occupants in the vehicle.

5. Can I continue driving my Chevrolet with the U0170 code related to the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module without repairing it?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code unresolved, as it may affect the proper operation of the airbag system and compromise passenger safety in the event of a collision.

6. What are some repair tips for addressing the U0170 code linked to the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module in a Chevrolet?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the faulty sensor module if necessary, updating software as recommended by the manufacturer, and ensuring proper communication on the vehicle's network.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the U0170 code indicating a lost communication with the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module in a Chevrolet?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, the labor rates of the repair shop, and the cost of any replacement parts needed. It is advisable to obtain quotes from different service providers.

8. Can I reset the U0170 code related to the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module in a Chevrolet using an OBDII scanner?

- While you can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, it is crucial to diagnose and address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring and ensure the proper functioning of the passenger presence detection system.

9. Is the U0170 code indicating a lost communication with the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module a common issue in Chevrolet vehicles?

- This code can be a common issue in some Chevrolet models, particularly those equipped with advanced airbag systems that rely on sensors to detect passenger presence and enable proper airbag deployment.

10. Can I repair the U0170 code related to the Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module in a Chevrolet myself, or should I seek professional help?

- While some basic checks like inspecting wiring and connectors can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing complex issues related to the passenger presence detection sensor module may require professional expertise to ensure proper resolution and safety compliance.

Discuss the causes and fixes for U0170 Chevrolet OBDII Code

Code U0170 Chevrolet comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play