What Does U0174 Mean?
The airbag control module has detected a loss of communication with restraint system sensor E on the vehicle network. This prevents the system from receiving impact data from this sensor location.
Safety Warning
Airbag system cannot function properly without all sensors communicating. Occupant safety is at risk during collisions; immediate repair required before driving.
Common Causes
35%
Defective impact sensor E with failed internal circuitry or connector corrosion
30%
Wiring harness damage including broken wires, chafed insulation, or connector damage
20%
Ground circuit problem at sensor E location or poor chassis ground connection
10%
CAN bus network fault affecting sensor E communication (termination or line fault)
5%
Airbag control module sensor E port malfunction or internal circuit failure
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Reference wiring diagrams to locate sensor E and perform thorough visual inspection of sensor installation, connector security, and signs of impact or water damage
2
Step 2: Test electrical supply at sensor E connector verifying 5V reference voltage present and ground circuit has proper continuity to chassis
3
Step 3: Measure CAN bus line resistance and verify proper network termination (typically 60 ohms on a properly terminated two-wire CAN bus)
4
Step 4: Perform voltage drop test on ground circuit under load and check for intermittent opens by wiggle testing harness and connections
5
Step 5: Substitute sensor E with known-good component after verifying all power, ground, and communication circuits are within specification
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $700
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The airbag control module has detected a loss of communication with restraint system sensor E on the vehicle network. This prevents the system from receiving impact data from this sensor location.
The most common cause of U0174 (Lost Communication With Restraints System Sensor E) is: Defective impact sensor E with failed internal circuitry or connector corrosion
Typical repair costs for U0174 range from $150 to $700, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Airbag system cannot function properly without all sensors communicating. Occupant safety is at risk during collisions; immediate repair required before driving.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to U0174 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Network
System
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/Airbag)
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.
