B17A600 - Frontal impact detected, crash data stored airbag control unit fault

What does error code B17A600 mean in the airbag control unit?

Error code B17A600 reports that the airbag control unit has detected a frontal impact and stored it in the crash data of the control unit. The control unit stores the fault itself, switches on the airbag warning light immediately and permanently records the impact as a fault in the fault memory of the airbag control unit.

The airbag control unit itself, which recorded the impact, is therefore affected. The code thus records that a frontal impact was registered, and it does not name a single cause within the restraint system (SRS).

How do you recognise error code B17A600?

You recognise error code B17A600 by the airbag warning light staying on permanently and the code being recorded as an entry in the fault memory of the airbag control unit. The entry cannot be permanently deleted, and it is read out with a diagnostic tool that displays the stored frontal impact in the control unit.

The code is linked to a frontal impact, because the control unit stores the crash data precisely in that case. The airbag warning light must therefore not be ignored.

What causes error code B17A600?

Error code B17A600 arises from crash data that the control unit stores after a frontal impact, or from an internal fault in the control unit itself. Which cause is present only becomes apparent during examination by a specialist workshop, because the code alone does not identify where the fault lies.

• Crash data from an accident involving a frontal impact
• Ageing electronic components in the control unit
• Soldered joints in the control unit
• Moisture or corrosion on the control unit
• Voltage spikes caused by a weak battery or jump-starting

Whether a technical defect is also present in the control unit has to be clarified by the examination, because crash data alone does not show this.

In which vehicles does error code B17A600 occur?

Error code B17A600 is known on BYD vehicles, including the Atto 2, Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal, Seal 6 and Sealion 7 models. The list given here is not exhaustive, and the meaning may differ on other vehicles.

The models named are a selection. Whether a particular vehicle is affected is checked by reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool.

How is error code B17A600 resolved?

Error code B17A600 is resolved by first reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool and clarifying the cause. If the cause lies in the control unit itself, the unit is then removed after the battery has been disconnected and sent in for examination and repair.

The readout establishes whether the code is actually stored before any further steps are taken. Safety note: work on the airbag system should be left to qualified specialists.

If the cause lies in the control unit, first disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Afterwards, you create a repair order online and send in the unit. Inspection, repair and testing usually take 3–4 working days.

The repaired control unit comes back with all vehicle data and is ready for use as soon as it is refitted — no coding or programming is required.