AutoCodes – Generic – U017E

U017E Code - Lost Communication With Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A'

Quick Answer

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Common causes include Faulty Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A', Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' harness is open or shorted, Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' 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: U017E indicates Lost Communication With Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A'.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A', Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' harness is open or shorted, Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' 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 7,084

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 02, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U017E Description

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the devices. The devices have programmed information about what messages are needed to be exchanged on the serial data circuits. CAN bus uses two dedicated wires for communication. The wires are called CAN high and CAN low. When the CAN bus is in idle mode, both lines carry 2.5V. When data bits are being transmitted, the CAN high line goes to 3.75V, and the CAN low drops to 1.25V, thereby generating a 2.5V differential between the lines. Since communication relies on a voltage differential between the two bus lines, the CAN bus is NOT sensitive to inductive spikes, electrical fields, or other noise. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when a periodic message from the Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' has not been received.

OBDII Code U017E - Lost Communication With Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' - AutoCodes.com — U017E Code - Lost Communication With Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A'

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U017E?

Faulty Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A'
Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' harness is open or shorted
Seatbelt Pretensioner Module 'A' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U017E?

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 U017E 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 U017E code?

Need more information on how to fix the U017E code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U017E 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 U017E Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U017E?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, loss of communication with the seatbelt pretensioner module, and potential issues with the seatbelt system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code U017E?

- The code U017E may be caused by a faulty seatbelt pretensioner module, damaged wiring or connectors in the seatbelt system, software issues, or a communication error within the vehicle's network.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code U017E?

- Diagnosing code U017E typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific fault codes, checking the seatbelt pretensioner module for communication errors, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, and conducting a thorough visual inspection of the seatbelt system.

4. Can I repair OBDII code U017E myself?

- Repairing code U017E often requires specialized tools and knowledge of automotive electronics. It is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic or technician to properly diagnose and repair the issue.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code U017E present?

- It is not recommended to drive with code U017E present, as it indicates a potential issue with the seatbelt pretensioner system, which is a critical safety component in the event of a collision.

6. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code U017E?

- The cost of fixing code U017E can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. Repair costs may include parts replacement, labor fees, and diagnostic charges from a repair shop or dealership.

7. Can resetting the OBDII system clear code U017E?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but it is important to address the underlying issue causing code U017E to prevent the problem from recurring.

8. Are there any recalls related to OBDII code U017E?

- It is recommended to check with the vehicle manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for any recalls related to code U017E and the seatbelt pretensioner module.

9. Can code U017E affect the overall performance of the vehicle?

- While code U017E is more related to the safety systems of the vehicle, it can potentially affect the overall performance if left unresolved, as it may indicate a communication error within the vehicle's network.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code U017E?

- The repair time for code U017E can vary depending on the complexity of the issue and the availability of parts. It is advisable to consult with a professional technician for a more accurate estimate of repair time.