P0317
Rough Road Hardware Not Present
When a vehicle powertrain module registers the fault code P0317, it points directly to an internal system malfunction identified as "Rough Road Hardware Not Present". Operating your engine under this condition may degrade long-term fuel maps.
Driver's Summary
The diagnostic trouble code P0317 indicates an active fault in the rough road hardware not present circuit or component. The most common signs are abs/traction control lights may illuminate, false misfire codes generated. Low severity — the car drives normally, but the fault should be diagnosed and resolved within the next few weeks.
Symptoms
ABS/Traction control lights may illuminate, false misfire codes generated
Common Causes
- Missing rough road sensor
- Disconnected sensor wiring
- PCM programmed incorrectly for vehicle options
- Failed ABS module communication
How to Fix
- 1 Inspect and plug in rough road sensor
- 2 Repair damaged wiring
- 3 Reflash PCM with correct VIN data
- 4 Diagnose ABS module
Technical Explanation
P0317 is stored after the control module confirms the fault over multiple ignition cycles, ruling out transient electrical noise as the cause. For injector-specific codes, the ECM monitors the injector control circuit voltage drop during each pulse; a shorted or open injector presents a characteristic resistance signature that differs measurably from a healthy unit. After two failed drive cycles, the code transitions from a pending to a confirmed DTC, and the PCM activates the MIL. Clearing the code without repairing the fault will result in re-illumination within one to two complete drive cycles.
Is It Safe to Drive?
Code P0317 has minimal impact on immediate driving safety. However, the underlying missing rough road sensor issue will cause this vehicle to fail an emissions inspection and may gradually affect fuel economy if left unrepaired.
Mechanic's Pro Tip
Module replacement should always be the last resort for P0317 after exhaustively verifying all power supply circuits, ground connections, and communication bus wiring. Use a wiring diagram to locate all fuses, relays, and ground points for the affected module, and measure voltage drop on each ground with the circuit loaded. A module "failure" is frequently a corroded ground eyelet or a weak battery causing brownout conditions — fix these first and you'll save hundreds of dollars on an unnecessary module replacement.
Wiring repair: 100; PCM Reflash: 150 - 300