AutoCodes – Jeep – U0173 Jeep

U0173 Jeep Code - Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2

Quick Answer

The impact sensors perform their own self-test using power supplied by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) then communicate this status back to the ORC with periodic updates. Common causes include Faulty Left Side Impact Sensor 2, Left Side Impact Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Impact Sensor 2 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: U0173 Jeep indicates Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Left Side Impact Sensor 2, Left Side Impact Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Impact Sensor 2 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 1,740

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 03, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0173 Jeep Description

The impact sensors perform their own self-test using power supplied by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) then communicate this status back to the ORC with periodic updates. The repair of this fault condition involves verifying the integrity of the wiring between the ORC and the sensor. This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the ORC no longer receives the notification of the status update from the side impact sensor. Once set, this DTC is latched for the entire ignition cycle.

OBDII Code U0173 Jeep - Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2 - AutoCodes.com — U0173 Jeep Code - Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0173 Jeep?

Faulty Left Side Impact Sensor 2
Left Side Impact Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
Left Side Impact Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)

How to Fix the DTC U0173 Jeep?

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

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the U0173 Jeep 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 U0173 Jeep code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0173 Jeep code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0173 Jeep 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 U0173 Jeep Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code U0173 in a Jeep related to the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2?

The common symptoms include an illuminated malfunction indicator light (MIL), loss of communication with the sensor, and potential issues with the vehicle's stability control system.

2. What are possible causes of the U0173 code indicating a lost communication with the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2 in a Jeep?

Possible causes include a faulty left side satellite acceleration sensor 2, damaged wiring or connectors leading to the sensor, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).

3. How can I diagnose the U0173 code in my Jeep related to the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble code, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2 for proper functionality.

4. Can driving with the U0173 code present cause any further damage to my Jeep?

Continuing to drive with the U0173 code present may lead to issues with the vehicle's stability control system and potentially compromise safety, so it is recommended to address the issue promptly.

5. How can the U0173 code related to the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2 in a Jeep be repaired?

Repairing the U0173 code may involve replacing the faulty left side satellite acceleration sensor 2, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, or resetting the PCM after resolving the communication issue.

6. Are there any DIY tips for addressing the U0173 code in my Jeep?

While some minor wiring checks and sensor inspections can be done by DIY enthusiasts, resolving the U0173 code may require specialized tools and expertise, so it's advisable to consult a professional mechanic.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my Jeep with the U0173 code indicating a lost communication with the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2?

Driving with the U0173 code present may affect the stability control system's performance, potentially compromising vehicle safety, so it is recommended to have the issue diagnosed and repaired promptly.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the U0173 code related to the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2 in a Jeep?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, the labor rates in your area, and the cost of any replacement parts needed, so it's best to get a professional diagnosis for an accurate estimate.

9. Can extreme weather conditions or rough terrain trigger the U0173 code in a Jeep?

Extreme weather conditions or rough terrain may not directly trigger the U0173 code, but they could potentially contribute to sensor damage or wiring issues that lead to the communication loss with the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2.

10. How long does it typically take to repair the U0173 code in a Jeep caused by a lost communication with the left side satellite acceleration sensor 2?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, the availability of replacement parts, and the mechanic's workload, but it's generally advisable to allow a few hours for diagnosis and repair.