OBD-II trouble code
U0473: Invalid Data Received From Restraints System Sensor C
A module is receiving messages from restraints system sensor C, but the values are implausible or out of range. The sensor is talking; the data can't be trusted. Because it feeds airbag deployment decisions, treat U0473 as safety-critical and diagnose it promptly.
Quick facts
- System
- Network
- Category
- Network Communication
- Severity
- High severity
- Drivable
- Usually safe to drive short-term
- Repair cost range
- $100 – $700
- DIY difficulty
- Shop recommended
What does U0473 mean?
Airbag systems use a spread of impact and acceleration sensors so the restraints (airbag) control module can tell a real collision from a pothole and judge its direction and force. 'Sensor C' is one specific sensor in that array — frequently a side-impact or B-pillar sensor, though the precise assignment is set by the manufacturer. U0473 sets when a receiving module still hears from restraints system sensor C, but the information in its messages is invalid: a reading is out of range, implausible, or contradicts the rest of the network, so the controller questions its integrity.
What makes this an invalid-data code, rather than a lost-communication code like U0172, is that the sensor is still transmitting — the problem is the content, not the connection. Because a wrong reading from a crash sensor could cause an airbag to fire when it shouldn't or fail to fire when it should, the restraints module treats bad data conservatively: it stores the fault, lights the airbag/SRS warning lamp, and can set the system to a fault state that alters or disables normal deployment behavior for that zone.
Typical causes are the things that corrupt a signal: a poor ground or low system voltage; corroded, loose, or water-damaged connectors — side and pillar sensors sit low and near door openings where moisture collects; chafed wiring; a sensor that has drifted out of calibration or failed; or a configuration/software issue after a sensor or module replacement that wasn't programmed to the vehicle. Side and pillar sensors are also easy to disturb during door, seat, or collision repair. The vehicle usually drives normally, which hides the risk. Have U0473 diagnosed by a technician equipped to handle airbag circuits safely, because working around restraint wiring carries a real risk of accidental deployment.
Common causes
- Corroded, loose, or water-damaged connector at restraints sensor C
- Moisture intrusion at a low side/pillar sensor mounting location
- Poor ground or low system voltage
- Chafed or damaged wiring corrupting the sensor's data in transit
- Sensor C drifting out of range or internally failing
- Sensor or restraints module replaced without correct programming/configuration
- Connector disturbed during door, seat, or collision repair
- Outdated, corrupted, or mismatched module software
Symptoms
- Airbag/SRS warning light on, often with a service-airbag message
- Restraints system fault state; side/zone deployment behavior may be affected
- Companion restraints or network codes stored alongside U0473
- Intermittent setting after rough roads or door slams (connector-related)
- Vehicle otherwise starts and drives normally
Diagnostic steps
- 1.Scan the restraints/SRS module and all modules; record every code. Follow safe SRS procedure — disconnect the battery and wait the specified time before any hands-on airbag work.
- 2.Locate restraints sensor C for the specific vehicle using factory service information (often a side or pillar location).
- 3.Load-test the battery and verify charging voltage and the module's grounds.
- 4.Inspect the sensor C connector and harness for corrosion, moisture, backed-out terminals, and chafing — check door and rocker routing carefully.
- 5.Confirm whether the sensor or module was recently replaced; verify it is configured to the vehicle.
- 6.Check the wiring between the sensor and the restraints controller for continuity and shorts.
- 7.If power, ground, and wiring are good but data stays invalid, replace sensor C with the correct part and clear codes per factory procedure.
Repair cost
$100 – $700
Cost depends on the cause. Diagnosis usually runs $100-$200. Correcting low voltage, a bad ground, or a moisture-damaged connector is often $150-$450. Reprogramming or configuring the sensor/module is typically $100-$350. Replacing restraints system sensor C with any required programming typically runs $200-$600+ depending on the sensor and its location. Because this is a safety system, a correct diagnosis matters more than the cheapest fix.
Estimate your repair
Run the numbers for your vehicle
Open the Repair Cost Estimator with airbag / srs crash sensor replacement preselected. Adjust labor rate and vehicle category to fit your situation.
DIY vs shop
Leave this one to a qualified shop. It typically involves emissions-critical components, refrigerant handling, or other work that requires manufacturer-grade tooling, training, or certification. DIY attempts often produce a more expensive problem than the original code.