U0179 code meaning
Lost Communication With Restraints System Sensor J
What U0179 means
U0179 closes the J2012 block for remote restraint sensors and names sensor J, the tenth position (the letter I is used as well, see U0178). The airbag control unit checks that each connected satellite keeps sending; if sensor J falls silent, the unit stores U0179, switches on the airbag warning lamp and may disable the deployment paths that rely on it. No manufacturer documents U0179 publicly, and Chrysler's published Jeep list stops at the sixth satellite (U0176), so this code is rare. Bosch describes peripheral sensors in front, side and rear positions, which explains why up to ten slots exist. U0170 to U0178 cover sensors A to I, U0151 the airbag unit itself. No MIL; repairs only by trained staff.
U0179 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U0179
- Airbag warning lamp on
- Restraint deployment relying on sensor J may be disabled
- Scan tool shows sensor J as not responding
Common causes of U0179
- Most likelyConnector at sensor J loose or corroded
- PossibleOpen or shorted line between sensor J and the airbag unit
- PossibleCrash sensor J failed, e.g. after a minor impact
- Less likelyAirbag control unit input faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Restraints sensor jCrash signal wiring
What each part of U0179 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 79 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0179 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about U0179
What does U0179 mean?
U0179 means "Lost Communication With Restraints System Sensor J". U0179 closes the J2012 block for remote restraint sensors and names sensor J, the tenth position (the letter I is used as well, see U0178). It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0179?
U0179 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will U0179 fail an emissions test?
U0179 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is U0179 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U0179 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.