AutoCodes – Dodge – U0172 Dodge

U0172 Dodge Code - Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 1

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 1, Left Side Impact Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Impact Sensor 1 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: U0172 Dodge indicates Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Left Side Impact Sensor 1, Left Side Impact Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Impact Sensor 1 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 7,111

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 U0172 Dodge 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 U0172 Dodge - Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 1 - AutoCodes.com — U0172 Dodge Code - Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0172 Dodge?

Faulty Left Side Impact Sensor 1
Left Side Impact Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
Left Side Impact Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)

How to Fix the DTC U0172 Dodge?

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 U0172 Dodge 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 U0172 Dodge code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0172 Dodge code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0172 Dodge 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 U0172 Dodge Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0172 in a Dodge vehicle?

The common symptoms of OBDII code U0172 include the malfunction indicator light (MIL) illuminating on the dashboard, issues with the vehicle's stability control system, and potential loss of communication with the left side satellite acceleration sensor 1.

2. What causes the OBDII code U0172 in a Dodge vehicle?

The OBDII code U0172 in a Dodge vehicle is typically caused by a faulty left side satellite acceleration sensor 1, damaged wiring or connectors related to the sensor, or issues with the vehicle's internal communication network.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code U0172 in my Dodge vehicle?

Diagnosing the OBDII code U0172 involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the fault codes, inspecting the left side satellite acceleration sensor 1 and its wiring for any visible damage, and checking the communication network for any issues.

4. Can I still drive my Dodge vehicle with the OBDII code U0172 present?

It is not recommended to drive your Dodge vehicle with the OBDII code U0172 present, as it can lead to stability control issues and potentially compromise the safety of the vehicle. It is advisable to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair the OBDII code U0172 in my Dodge vehicle?

To repair the OBDII code U0172, you may need to replace the left side satellite acceleration sensor 1, repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors, and clear the fault codes using a diagnostic scanner.

6. Is the OBDII code U0172 a common issue in Dodge vehicles?

The OBDII code U0172 related to the lost communication with the left side satellite acceleration sensor 1 is not as common as some other OBDII codes, but it can occur in Dodge vehicles, particularly in models equipped with advanced safety and stability control systems.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code U0172 issue in a Dodge vehicle?

While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair the OBDII code U0172, it is recommended to seek professional help, especially when dealing with safety-critical components like acceleration sensors and stability control systems.

8. Will resetting the fault codes make the OBDII code U0172 disappear permanently?

Simply resetting the fault codes may temporarily clear the OBDII code U0172, but if the underlying issue with the left side satellite acceleration sensor 1 or the communication network is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code U0172 in a Dodge vehicle?

The cost of repairing the OBDII code U0172 in a Dodge vehicle can vary depending on the specific model, the extent of the damage, and whether you choose to replace the sensor yourself or have it done by a professional mechanic. Costs can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

10. Can extreme weather conditions affect the occurrence of the OBDII code U0172 in a Dodge vehicle?

Extreme weather conditions, particularly temperature fluctuations, can potentially affect the performance of sensors and wiring in a vehicle, including the left side satellite acceleration sensor 1. It is advisable to keep your vehicle well-maintained to minimize the impact of weather-related issues on the OBDII system.