U0173 RAM Code - Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2
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 2, Left Side Impact Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Impact 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
- U0173 RAM indicates Lost Communication With Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Left Side Impact Sensor 2, Left Side Impact Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Impact 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.
Code U0173 RAM Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0173 RAM?
- Faulty Left Side Impact Sensor 2
- Left Side Impact Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
- Left Side Impact Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
How to Fix the DTC U0173 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 U0173 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 U0173 RAM code?
Need more information on how to fix the U0173 RAM code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the U0173 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about U0173 RAM Code
1. What does OBDII code U0173 mean on a RAM vehicle?
Code U0173 indicates a loss of communication with the Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2, which is part of the vehicle's safety and stability systems.
2. What are the symptoms of code U0173 in a RAM vehicle?
Common symptoms include an illuminated check engine light, issues with stability control or traction control, and potential deactivation of certain safety features like airbags.
3. What causes the U0173 code to appear on a RAM vehicle?
The code is typically caused by faulty wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2, or issues with the controller area network (CAN) bus.
4. Can I drive my RAM vehicle with a U0173 code?
While the vehicle may still be drivable, safety features like stability control and airbags may not function correctly, so it’s important to address the issue promptly.
5. How is the U0173 code diagnosed on a RAM vehicle?
Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and testing the sensor and CAN bus communication.
6. What repairs are needed to fix the U0173 code?
Repairs may include replacing the Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing issues in the CAN bus network.
7. How much does it cost to fix a U0173 code on a RAM vehicle?
Repair costs can vary, but replacing a sensor typically ranges from $100 to $300, while repairing wiring or connectors could cost less depending on the extent of the damage.
8. Can a U0173 code be cleared without repairs?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the warning light, but the problem is likely to return until proper repairs are made.
9. Is a U0173 code related to airbag function in a RAM vehicle?
Yes, the Left Side Satellite Acceleration Sensor 2 is part of the airbag system, and a malfunction could impact the deployment of airbags in a collision.
10. What tools are needed to troubleshoot a U0173 code?
You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing electrical connections, and possibly a wiring diagram for your specific RAM vehicle model.
Discuss the causes and fixes for U0173 RAM OBDII Code
Code U0173 RAM comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
