AutoCodes – Buick – U1170 Buick

U1170 Buick Code - Lost Communications With Driver Door Switch Assembly

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Driver Door Switch Assembly, Driver Door Switch Assembly harness is open or shorted, Driver Door Switch Assembly 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: U1170 Buick indicates Lost Communications With Driver Door Switch Assembly.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Driver Door Switch Assembly, Driver Door Switch Assembly harness is open or shorted, Driver Door Switch Assembly 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 1,065

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 24, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U1170 Buick Description

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the modules. When a module receives a message for a critical operating parameter, the module records the identification number of the module which sent the message for the state of health monitoring/node alive messages. A critical operating parameter is one which, when not received, requires that the module use a default value for that parameter. Once an identification number is learned by a module, it will monitor for that module node alive message. Each module on the class 2 serial data circuit is required to send a Node Alive message every 2 seconds. When no message is detected from a learned identification number for 5 seconds, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U1170 is set.

OBDII Code U1170 Buick - Lost Communications With Driver Door Switch Assembly - AutoCodes.com — U1170 Buick Code - Lost Communications With Driver Door Switch Assembly

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1170 Buick?

Faulty Driver Door Switch Assembly
Driver Door Switch Assembly harness is open or shorted
Driver Door Switch Assembly circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U1170 Buick?

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 U1170 Buick 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 U1170 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code U1170 mean on a Buick?

It indicates a loss of communication with the Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA), which is part of the vehicleâ€™s communication network.

2. What are the common symptoms of the U1170 code on a Buick?

Symptoms can include inoperative power windows, door locks, or mirrors, and possibly a warning light on the dashboard.

3. What causes the U1170 code to appear in a Buick?

The code is typically caused by issues such as a damaged wiring harness, a faulty driver door switch assembly, or a problem with the communication network.

4. Can a weak battery cause the U1170 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can disrupt the communication network, potentially triggering the U1170 code.

5. How do you diagnose the U1170 code in a Buick?

Diagnosis involves checking for damaged or corroded wiring, testing the driver door switch assembly, and inspecting communication network connections.

6. Is it safe to drive with the U1170 code active?

While it may not immediately affect drivability, the loss of door switch functionality can be inconvenient and should be addressed promptly.

7. How do you fix the U1170 code on a Buick?

Repairs may involve replacing the driver door switch assembly, repairing damaged wiring, or updating the vehicleâ€™s software if needed.

8. Can a blown fuse trigger the U1170 code?

Yes, a blown fuse in the circuit controlling the driver door switch assembly could cause a loss of communication and set the code.

9. How much does it cost to fix the U1170 code on a Buick?

Repair costs can vary widely, ranging from $50 for a simple wiring repair to $300 or more if the driver door switch assembly needs replacement.

10. Can the U1170 code clear itself after repairs?

The code may clear itself after repairs, but it may also require a scan tool to reset it and verify the issue is resolved.

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