AutoCodes – Cadillac – U0170 Cadillac

U0170 Cadillac 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 Cadillac 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.

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Code Popularity 3,521

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 02, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0170 Cadillac 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 Cadillac - Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module - AutoCodes.com — U0170 Cadillac Code - Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0170 Cadillac?

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 Cadillac?

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 Cadillac 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 Cadillac code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0170 Cadillac 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 Cadillac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0170 (Lost Communication With Passenger Presence Detection Sensor Module) in a Cadillac?

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

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code U0170 in a Cadillac?

- The code U0170 in a Cadillac can be caused by a faulty passenger presence detection sensor module, wiring issues, a loose connection, or a malfunctioning control module.

3. How can I diagnose the root cause of OBDII code U0170 in my Cadillac?

- Diagnosing code U0170 requires using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes, inspecting the wiring and connections related to the passenger presence detection sensor module, and conducting thorough testing of the sensor itself.

4. Can I continue driving my Cadillac with OBDII code U0170 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your Cadillac with code U0170 present, as it indicates a potential issue with the passenger airbag system, which is crucial for occupant safety in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair OBDII code U0170 in my Cadillac?

- Repairing code U0170 involves addressing the root cause of the communication loss with the passenger presence detection sensor module, which may require replacing the sensor, repairing wiring issues, or resetting the control module.

6. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code U0170 in my Cadillac using an OBDII scanner?

- While resetting the code temporarily may turn off the warning light, it is important to diagnose and repair the underlying issue causing code U0170 to ensure the proper functioning of the passenger airbag system.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code U0170 in a Cadillac?

- The cost of repairing code U0170 in a Cadillac can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may involve expenses for parts replacement, labor costs, and diagnostic fees.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code U0170 in a Cadillac at home?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address simple wiring or connection issues related to code U0170, diagnosing and repairing the root cause of the problem may require advanced tools and expertise best handled by a professional mechanic.

9. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code U0170 in Cadillac vehicles?

- It is advisable to check with your local Cadillac dealership or visit the NHTSA website to see if there are any recalls or technical service bulletins related to code U0170 in your specific Cadillac model.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code U0170 from occurring in my Cadillac in the future?

- To prevent code U0170 from occurring in the future, it is essential to perform regular maintenance checks, ensure proper connections and wiring integrity, and address any warning lights or issues promptly to avoid potential safety hazards.