B0171 - Air Conditioning System Fault - Common in 2014-2019 Ford F-150 and 2013-2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Quick Answer

B0171 means: DTC B0171 indicates a fault in the air conditioning system, specifically related to the refrigerant pressure sensor.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $100 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B0171? It is recommended to diagnose and fix the issue soon to avoid further complications.

Common Questions

What does B0171 mean and how does it affect my car?

B0171 indicates a problem with the air conditioning system, usually related to refrigerant pressure. This can lead to insufficient cooling and discomfort, especially in warmer months. Addressing this issue promptly is essential to restore comfort and avoid further damage.

What are the most common causes of B0171 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include low refrigerant levels, faulty sensors, and electrical issues. Repair costs can range from $100 to $300 for refrigerant issues and $50 to $150 for sensor replacements, depending on labor and parts.

Can I drive my car with B0171 or should I stop immediately?

You can drive your vehicle, but it's recommended to address the issue soon to ensure your A/C works effectively. Ignoring this code may lead to further complications, especially if other components fail.

How can I diagnose B0171 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for codes and view freeze frame data to gather context about the fault. This can help pinpoint the issue more accurately before visiting a technician.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0171?

DTC B0171 is frequently found in models such as the 2014-2019 Ford F-150 and the 2013-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, among others. Checking for technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to your model can provide additional insights.

How can I prevent B0171 from happening again?

Regular maintenance, including checking refrigerant levels, inspecting A/C components, and cleaning the condenser, can help prevent future occurrences of B0171.

What is B0171?

DTC B0171 indicates a fault in the air conditioning (A/C) system, specifically related to the refrigerant pressure sensor or the A/C control module. When this code is triggered, it usually signifies that the vehicle's computer has detected an issue with the refrigerant pressure, which is crucial for the A/C system to function effectively. For vehicle owners, this can mean that your air conditioning may not be cooling properly, leading to discomfort, especially in hot weather. The issue may stem from low refrigerant levels, a faulty sensor, or even electrical issues such as damaged wiring or connectors. If left unaddressed, this problem can lead to further system failures and more costly repairs. It's important to note that while the B0171 code itself doesn’t indicate immediate danger, it should be diagnosed and resolved promptly to ensure comfort and functionality of the vehicle's climate control system. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can prevent the escalation of underlying issues, which can save you money in the long run.

System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0171 is present:

  • Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a persistent issue with the A/C system.
  • Air conditioning blows warm air or fails to cool the interior, leading to discomfort during hot weather.
  • Unusual noises from the engine compartment when the A/C is engaged, which may indicate issues with the compressor.
  • Increased fuel consumption due to the A/C system working inefficiently, potentially decreasing fuel economy by 5-10%.
  • The A/C system cycles on and off frequently, indicating possible pressure irregularities.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0171 (ordered by frequency):

  1. {'cause': 'Low refrigerant levels (60%) - This is the most common cause of the B0171 code, often resulting from leaks in the system. Regular checks and servicing can help prevent this.', 'details': 'If the refrigerant is low, it can lead to insufficient cooling. Look for signs of leaks around fittings, hoses, or the condenser.'}
  2. {'cause': 'Faulty A/C pressure sensor (25%) - A malfunctioning sensor can provide incorrect readings, causing the system to behave erratically.', 'details': 'Testing the sensor with a multimeter can help determine if it is providing accurate readings.'}
  3. {'cause': 'Electrical issues (10%) - Damaged wiring or poor connections can lead to communication errors between the A/C control module and the sensor.', 'details': 'Inspect all related wiring for signs of wear, corrosion, or disconnection.'}
  4. {'cause': 'Compressor failure (3%) - A failed compressor can lead to complete A/C system failure.', 'details': 'Listen for any unusual noises when the A/C is turned on, which may indicate compressor issues.'}
  5. {'cause': 'Blocked condenser (2%) - Dirt, debris, or damage can restrict airflow, affecting performance.', 'details': 'Regular cleaning of the condenser can prevent blockages and maintain efficiency.'}

B0171 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Refrigerant recharge and leak repair

Recharging the A/C system and repairing any identified leaks.

  • Total: $100 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
A/C pressure sensor replacement

Replacing the faulty A/C pressure sensor.

  • Total: $50 - $150
  • Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for B0171
  • Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
  • Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
  • Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
  • Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
  • Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage

Diagnostic Steps

Professional B0171 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0171. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for visible signs of damage to wiring, connectors, or the A/C components (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for visible signs of damage to wiring, connectors, or the A/C components (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the context of the fault (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the context of the fault (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Refrigerant level check - Measure refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks in the system (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Refrigerant level check - Measure refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks in the system (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: Sensor testing - Use a multimeter to test the A/C pressure sensor for accurate readings (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: Sensor testing - Use a multimeter to test the A/C pressure sensor for accurate readings (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: System function test - After repairs, clear codes and verify if the A/C system operates correctly under various conditions (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: System function test - After repairs, clear codes and verify if the A/C system operates correctly under various conditions (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

Important Notes

  • Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
  • Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
  • Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence

Real Repair Case Studies

Case Study 1: A/C Recharge and Leak Repair on 2015 Ford F-150

Vehicle: 2015 Ford F-150, 75,000 miles

Problem: Customer complained of warm air blowing from the A/C vents.

Diagnosis: Initial inspection revealed low refrigerant levels due to a small leak in the system.

Solution: Recharged the refrigerant and applied sealant to the leak.

Cost: $200 (recharge and labor)

Result: A/C system returned to full functionality, with cool air being produced.

Case Study 2: A/C Pressure Sensor Replacement on 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported intermittent A/C operation.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed B0171, and testing showed the pressure sensor was faulty.

Solution: Replaced the A/C pressure sensor and cleared the codes.

Cost: $120 (sensor and labor)

Result: A/C system operated normally without further issues.

Diagnose B0171

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B0171
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: MEDIUM
Category: Body Codes