AutoCodes – RAM – U1473 RAM

U1473 RAM Code - Implausible Data Received From Right C-Pillar Impact Acceleration Sensor

Quick Answer

Six side impact sensors are used on vehicles equipped with side curtain airbags, three on each side of the vehicle. Common causes include Faulty Right Side Impact Pressure Sensor 2, Right Side Impact Pressure Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Right Side Impact Pressure 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: U1473 RAM indicates Implausible Data Received From Right C-Pillar Impact Acceleration Sensor.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Side Impact Pressure Sensor 2, Right Side Impact Pressure Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Right Side Impact Pressure 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 667

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 May 25, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U1473 RAM Description

Six side impact sensors are used on vehicles equipped with side curtain airbags, three on each side of the vehicle. One acceleration-type sensor is located behind the B-pillar trim near the base of each B-pillar, and one acceleration-type sensor is located behind the quarter panel trim near the base of each C-pillar. One pressure-type sensor is located on each front poor hardware carrier panel, concealed behind each front door inside the trim panel. The Right Side Impact Sensor 2 is mounted to the passenger rear door opening. 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 code will set, if the ORC and the Right Side Impact Sensor 2 do not establish and maintain valid data communications. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will become active after the fault has set for a minimum of 2.5 seconds. The DTC will go to Stored after the ORC to Right Side Impact Sensor 2 communication fault has been removed or the suspect sensor has been replaced for 2.5 seconds. The Airbag Warning Lamp (AWL) will set in the instrument cluster.

OBDII Code U1473 RAM - Implausible Data Received From Right C-Pillar Impact Acceleration Sensor - AutoCodes.com — U1473 RAM Code - Implausible Data Received From Right C-Pillar Impact Acceleration Sensor

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1473 RAM?

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

How to Fix the DTC U1473 RAM?

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 U1473 RAM 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 U1473 RAM code?

Need more information on how to fix the U1473 RAM code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U1473 RAM 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 U1473 RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U1473 RAM?

- Common symptoms include an illuminated Check Engine light, issues with the right C-pillar impact acceleration sensor, and potential issues with the vehicle's airbag system.

2. What could cause the OBDII code U1473 RAM to appear?

- The code may appear due to a malfunction in the right C-pillar impact acceleration sensor, wiring issues, or a faulty airbag control module.

3. How serious is the U1473 RAM code?

- The code indicates a problem with the right C-pillar impact acceleration sensor, which is a crucial component of the vehicle's airbag system. It is important to address this issue promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbags in case of an accident.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with the U1473 RAM code?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the U1473 RAM code present, as it indicates a potential issue with the airbag system. It is best to have the vehicle inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

5. How can I diagnose and repair the U1473 RAM code?

- Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the right C-pillar impact acceleration sensor, checking the wiring for any damage, and testing the airbag control module. Repairs may involve replacing the sensor, repairing the wiring, or recalibrating the airbag system.

6. Is it safe to reset the U1473 RAM code without fixing the underlying issue?

- It is not recommended to reset the code without addressing the underlying problem, as it could lead to safety issues in the event of an accident. It is best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired by a professional.

7. How much does it cost to fix the U1473 RAM code?

- The cost of fixing the U1473 RAM code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. Costs may include sensor replacement, wiring repairs, or module reprogramming. It is advisable to get a quote from a mechanic.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the U1473 RAM code at home?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair the U1473 RAM code, it involves working with the airbag system, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. It is recommended to have the issue addressed by a professional.

9. Will the U1473 RAM code prevent my airbags from deploying in an accident?

- The U1473 RAM code indicates an issue with the right C-pillar impact acceleration sensor, which could affect the deployment of the airbags. It is crucial to resolve this issue to ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system.

10. How long does it take to fix the U1473 RAM code?

- The time required to fix the U1473 RAM code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the availability of parts. It is advisable to consult with a mechanic to get an estimate of the repair time.