AutoCodes – Chrysler – U0171 Chrysler

U0171 Chrysler Code - Lost Communication With Up-Front Right Satellite Acceleration Sensor

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 Right Front Impact Sensor, Right Front Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Right Front Impact Sensor 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: U0171 Chrysler indicates Lost Communication With Up-Front Right Satellite Acceleration Sensor.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Front Impact Sensor, Right Front Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Right Front Impact Sensor 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 4,161

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 Apr 03, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0171 Chrysler 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 impact sensor. Once set, this DTC is latched for the entire ignition cycle.

OBDII Code U0171 Chrysler - Lost Communication With Up-Front Right Satellite Acceleration Sensor - AutoCodes.com — U0171 Chrysler Code - Lost Communication With Up-Front Right Satellite Acceleration Sensor

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0171 Chrysler?

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

How to Fix the DTC U0171 Chrysler?

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 U0171 Chrysler 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 U0171 Chrysler code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0171 Chrysler code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0171 Chrysler 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 U0171 Chrysler Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0171 in a Chrysler indicating lost communication with the up-front right satellite acceleration sensor?

- Common symptoms include the malfunction indicator light (MIL) illuminating, issues with the vehicle's stability control system, and potentially compromised safety features.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code U0171 in a Chrysler?

- Possible causes include a faulty up-front right satellite acceleration sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a communication bus fault, or a problem with the powertrain control module (PCM).

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code U0171 in my Chrysler?

- Diagnosing the issue typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the trouble codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the up-front right satellite acceleration sensor, and testing the sensor itself for proper functionality.

4. Is it safe to drive my Chrysler with OBDII code U0171 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can affect the operation of safety systems and potentially compromise vehicle stability.

5. Can I reset the OBDII code U0171 in my Chrysler to see if it returns?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is recommended to diagnose and repair the underlying issue causing the code before attempting to clear it for a more permanent solution.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code U0171 in a Chrysler?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may involve sensor replacement, wiring repairs, or addressing communication bus faults. Costs can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

7. Are there any DIY tips for addressing OBDII code U0171 in my Chrysler?

- DIY tips may include visually inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, ensuring proper sensor connections, and checking for any loose or corroded connections before seeking professional assistance.

8. Can a mechanic easily fix OBDII code U0171 in a Chrysler?

- A trained mechanic with experience in diagnosing and repairing automotive electrical issues should be able to efficiently address the problem causing the U0171 trouble code in a Chrysler.

9. Will OBDII code U0171 cause my Chrysler to fail an emissions test?

- If left unaddressed, the U0171 trouble code can affect the vehicle's emissions control system and potentially cause it to fail an emissions test due to compromised safety and stability features.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code U0171 in a Chrysler?

- The repair time can vary depending on the complexity of the issue causing the code, but it may take a few hours to a full day for diagnosis, parts replacement, and testing to ensure the problem is resolved effectively.