AutoCodes – Generic – U0217

U0217 Code - Lost Communication With Door Switch Module 'C'

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 Door Switch Module 'C', Door Switch Module 'C' harness is open or shorted, Door Switch Module 'C' 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: U0217 indicates Lost Communication With Door Switch Module 'C'.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Door Switch Module 'C', Door Switch Module 'C' harness is open or shorted, Door Switch Module 'C' 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 2,272

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 U0217 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 Door Switch Module 'C' has not been received.

OBDII Code U0217 - Lost Communication With Door Switch Module 'C' - AutoCodes.com — U0217 Code - Lost Communication With Door Switch Module 'C'

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0217?

Faulty Door Switch Module 'C'
Door Switch Module 'C' harness is open or shorted
Door Switch Module 'C' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0217?

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 U0217 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.

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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 U0217 Code

1. What does the OBDII code U0217 mean?

U0217 indicates that the vehicle’s communication with Door Switch Module 'C' has been lost, typically due to a network or wiring issue.

2. What are the common symptoms of the U0217 code?

Symptoms may include malfunctioning door switches, inoperative power windows, or interior lights not responding as expected.

3. What causes the U0217 code to appear?

Causes can include damaged wiring, faulty connectors, a failed Door Switch Module 'C', or issues with the CAN bus communication network.

4. Can I drive my vehicle with the U0217 code active?

Yes, you can usually drive your vehicle, but certain convenience features like power windows or locks may not function properly.

5. How do I diagnose the U0217 code?

Start by checking the wiring and connectors for damage, then use a scan tool to verify communication with the module. Ensure the CAN bus network is functioning correctly.

6. How do I fix the U0217 code?

Repairs may include replacing damaged wiring, reconnecting loose connectors, or replacing the Door Switch Module 'C' if it is faulty.

7. Can a weak battery cause the U0217 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can disrupt communication between modules and potentially trigger this code.

8. Is it necessary to reprogram the Door Switch Module 'C' after replacement?

In some vehicles, you may need to reprogram or initialize the module using a scan tool after replacement.

9. How much does it cost to repair the U0217 code?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the issue, ranging from $50 for simple wiring fixes to over $500 for module replacement and programming.

10. Can a faulty Door Switch Module 'C' affect other systems in the vehicle?

Yes, if the module disrupts the CAN bus network, it may interfere with communication between other systems, potentially causing additional error codes.