Manufacturer-specific powertrain code — definition not reliably documented; its meaning varies by make, model, and year, so confirm it against your manufacturer's service information
The P1173 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Manufacturer-specific powertrain code — definition not reliably documented; its meaning varies by make, model, and year, so confirm it against your manufacturer's service information. This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- Varies — depends on the specific component this manufacturer-specific code points to on your vehicle. Diagnose before buying parts.
Manufacturer-specific code. P1173 is a manufacturer-specific DTC, so its exact definition can differ by make, model, and year. Use the meaning above as a general guide, and always confirm it against your vehicle manufacturer's official service information (or a make-specific scan tool) before diagnosing or replacing parts.
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Common Symptoms
- Check Engine or a related warning light on
- Exact symptoms depend on the specific system this code covers for your make
- A make-specific scan reveals which subsystem and circuit is involved
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- A fault in the specific component or circuit this code monitors (the exact part varies by manufacturer) High
- Damaged wiring, a corroded connector, or a poor ground in that circuit Moderate
- A related sensor or control module reporting or causing the fault Moderate
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Confirm your exact make, model, and year first — P1173 is manufacturer-specific and can mean different things across brands.
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Read P1173 with an enhanced/make-specific scan tool and check your manufacturer's official service information for the precise definition and procedure.
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Inspect the wiring, connectors, and grounds for the indicated circuit before replacing any part.
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P1173 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2001-2010 VW Jetta/Golf/Passat 1.8T/2.0T moderate DIY
VW P1173 is an Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) sensor circuit fault. The EGT sensor screws into the cat converter. On 1.8T it's accessed from underneath. Replace with OE Bosch 0258030003. VCDS will show the live EGT reading -- should be 400-700C at highway cruise. If it reads open or stuck at zero, the sensor has failed.
Labor: 1 hour2005-2014 Audi A4/A6 2.0T moderate DIY
Audi 2.0T P1173 = EGT sensor before the cat. Replace with OE Bosch. The sensor is a screw-in type with a wired connector routed along the exhaust. Route the new wire the same way to avoid heat damage. Apply anti-seize to the threads.
Labor: 1 hour2009-2016 VW Jetta/Passat TDI 2.0L moderate DIY
TDI P1173 = EGT sensor circuit fault upstream of the DPF. There are 3-4 EGT sensors on TDI exhaust; P1173 typically points to the pre-DPF sensor. Use VCDS to identify exactly which sensor is faulty via measured values. Replacement is straightforward but requires patience due to heat-seized threads -- use penetrant and heat.
Labor: 1-2 hoursFrequently Asked Questions
Does P1173 mean the same thing on every vehicle?
No. P1173 is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code, so its exact meaning varies by make, model, and year. Always confirm it against your vehicle manufacturer's service information before diagnosing or replacing parts.
What does P1173 most likely indicate?
Manufacturer-specific powertrain code — definition not reliably documented; its meaning varies by make, model, and year, so confirm it against your manufacturer's service information. Treat this as a general guide and verify the specifics for your vehicle.
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