AutoCodesGeneric – U0473

U0473 Code - Invalid Data Received From Restraints System Sensor 'C'

Quick Answer

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Common causes include Faulty Restraints System Sensor 'C', Restraints System Sensor 'C' harness is open or shorted, Restraints System Sensor 'C' 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
U0473 indicates Invalid Data Received From Restraints System Sensor 'C'.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Restraints System Sensor 'C', Restraints System Sensor 'C' harness is open or shorted, Restraints System Sensor 'C' 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 1,742
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 13, 2020
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Code U0473 Description

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the devices. The devices have programmed information about what messages are needed to be exchanged on the serial data circuits. Some devices are constantly receiving information from other devices through serial data communication network. The invalid data Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when a receiving device detects a discrepancy in the information it receives from the Restraints System Sensor 'C' causing its integrity to be questioned.
OBDII Code U0473 - Invalid Data Received From Restraints System Sensor 'C' - AutoCodes.com
U0473 Code - Invalid Data Received From Restraints System Sensor 'C'

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0473?

  • Faulty Restraints System Sensor 'C'
  • Restraints System Sensor 'C' harness is open or shorted
  • Restraints System Sensor 'C' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0473?

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 U0473 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 U0473 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0473 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0473 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 U0473 Code

What does OBD-II code U0473 mean?

Code U0473 indicates that the vehicle's control module has received invalid data from the Restraints System Sensor 'C,' which may affect airbag deployment and occupant safety features.

What are the common symptoms of code U0473?

Symptoms may include an illuminated airbag warning light, malfunctioning safety features, or errors in the vehicle's restraint system.

What causes code U0473?

Common causes include a faulty Restraints System Sensor 'C,' wiring issues such as damaged or corroded connections, or a software malfunction in the control module.

Can I drive my car with code U0473?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code, as it can compromise the functionality of the airbag system and occupant safety features.

How is code U0473 diagnosed?

A technician will typically use a scan tool to check the vehicle's modules, inspect the wiring and connectors related to the restraint system, and test the Restraints System Sensor 'C' for faults.

How can I fix code U0473?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty Restraints System Sensor 'C,' repairing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or updating the vehicle's software.

How much does it cost to fix code U0473?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the issue but typically range from $100 to $500, depending on labor rates and parts needed.

Is code U0473 specific to certain car brands?

No, code U0473 is a generic OBD-II code and can appear in vehicles from various manufacturers, though specific diagnostic and repair steps may vary by make and model.

Will resetting the code fix U0473?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the airbag warning light, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from reappearing.

What tools are needed to fix code U0473?

A diagnostic scan tool, multimeter, and wiring repair kit are commonly used to diagnose and fix issues related to this code.

Discuss the causes and fixes for U0473 OBDII Code

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