AutoFaultCodes.com
OBD-II fault code definitions, symptoms, causes, and step-by-step diagnostics.
Standardized generic DTCIgnition & misfire

P0317 — Rough Road Hardware Not Present

P0317 is the standardized powertrain DTC for “Rough Road Hardware Not Present.” The code identifies the monitored condition; it does not by itself prove which part failed.

Standardized generic definition
Rough Road Hardware Not Present
DTC category
Ignition & misfire
Diagnostic priority
Moderate — diagnose promptly, especially if drivability changes or additional warning lights appear.
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What P0317 means

P0317 is the standardized powertrain DTC for “Rough Road Hardware Not Present.” The code identifies the monitored condition; it does not by itself prove which part failed.

Start with the stored data and the simplest external checks before replacing the component named in the code.

Possible symptoms

  • Check Engine Light or powertrain warning
  • Symptoms may be intermittent and depend on operating conditions

Causes to test

These are diagnostic possibilities, not a statistical parts-replacement ranking. Vehicle-specific service information takes priority.

  • Connector, wiring, power or ground problem
  • Failed or biased sensor/actuator
  • Mechanical or system condition causing the monitored value to be out of range
  • Control-module calibration or module fault after other causes are ruled out

Step-by-step diagnostic workflow

  1. Save all stored, pending, and permanent DTCs plus freeze-frame data before clearing anything.
  2. Check technical service information for the exact year, engine, transmission, and calibration.
  3. Inspect the affected component, connector, harness routing, grounds, and related fuses before replacing parts.
  4. Compare commanded and actual scan data under the conditions that set the code.
  5. Perform circuit or mechanical tests specified by service information; repair the confirmed root cause.
  6. Clear codes only after repair, then complete an appropriate drive cycle and verify the code and symptoms do not return.
Preserve evidence: EPA OBD guidance emphasizes that stored DTCs and freeze-frame data are important to proper diagnosis. Save them before clearing codes.

Scan data worth checking

  • Freeze-frame RPM, load, coolant temperature, vehicle speed, and battery voltage
  • Commanded versus actual value for the affected system
  • Related DTCs and pending DTCs

Severity and drivability

Moderate — diagnose promptly, especially if drivability changes or additional warning lights appear.

Stop driving and investigate immediately if there is a flashing MIL, oil-pressure warning, overheating, fuel leakage, severe misfire, major loss of power, abnormal mechanical noise, or a transmission that is slipping badly.

Common diagnostic mistakes

  • Replacing the named component without checking wiring, connectors, power, and ground
  • Clearing codes before saving freeze-frame information
  • Ignoring related codes that may identify the primary fault

Related generic codes

P0298 — Engine Oil Over-Temperature ConditionP0297 — Vehicle Overspeed ConditionP0219 — Engine Overspeed ConditionP0169 — Incorrect Fuel CompositionP0168 — Fuel Temperature Too HighP0149 — Fuel Timing Error

Source and accuracy notes

Generic DTC structure and standardized definitions are governed by SAE J2012/J2012DA. Actual enable criteria, thresholds, circuit pinouts, test values, software conditions, and repair procedures vary by vehicle. Use current OEM service information for the exact year/engine/calibration and check applicable manufacturer technical service bulletins. See the site methodology and primary-reference policy.