U00A6 - Understanding the Communication Error in 2016-2021 Ford Explorer and Other Models

Quick Answer

U00A6 means: U00A6 indicates a communication error between control modules in your vehicle.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U00A6? It is advisable to address this issue immediately to prevent further electrical problems.

Common Questions

What does U00A6 mean and how does it affect my car?

The U00A6 code indicates a communication failure between your vehicle's electronic modules. This can lead to issues with essential systems, including lighting and stability control. If ignored, it may result in more significant electrical problems and affect your car's safety and performance.

What are the most common causes of U00A6 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include faulty wiring, a defective BCM, or software issues. Repair costs can range from $150 for wiring repairs to over $500 for BCM replacements. It's essential to diagnose the exact issue for accurate cost estimation.

Can I drive my car with U00A6 or should I stop immediately?

It's advisable to address the U00A6 code promptly, as driving with this code can lead to further electrical failures. While you may be able to drive for a short time, it's crucial to have your vehicle inspected to avoid safety risks.

How can I diagnose U00A6 myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose U00A6 using the GeekOBD APP, first connect the OBD2 scanner to your vehicle. Use the app to retrieve DTCs and view freeze frame data. From there, check for additional codes and monitor live data to identify the malfunctioning component.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U00A6?

The U00A6 code is frequently seen in the 2016-2021 Ford Explorer and can also affect other Ford models during the same production period. Always check for any recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to communication issues.

How can I prevent U00A6 from happening again?

To prevent the U00A6 code, regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle's wiring and connections, especially after exposure to harsh conditions. Ensure that software updates for your vehicle's modules are performed as recommended by your manufacturer.

What is U00A6?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U00A6 indicates a communication error between the vehicle's control modules, specifically related to the vehicle's body control module (BCM) and other modules in the network. Essentially, this code means that one or more modules are not able to communicate properly with each other, which can lead to various electrical issues and malfunctions in your vehicle. This is particularly common in models like the 2016-2021 Ford Explorer and can affect systems such as the lights, power doors, and even the vehicle's stability control. The presence of this code can cause warning lights to illuminate on the dashboard, including the check engine light. In some cases, you may also experience symptoms like intermittent electrical problems or failure of specific electronic components. Ignoring this code can lead to further complications, as it suggests that the modules responsible for managing essential vehicle functions are not operating correctly. Addressing the U00A6 code promptly is crucial for maintaining the overall functionality and safety of your vehicle.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U00A6 is present:

  • The check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue that needs attention.
  • You may notice that certain electrical components, like power windows or door locks, operate intermittently or not at all, causing frustration.
  • Fuel economy might decrease by about 10-15% as electronic control systems struggle to communicate effectively, leading to inefficiencies.
  • Warning lights for stability control may illuminate, affecting your vehicle's handling in critical situations.
  • Random electrical failures could occur, such as dashboard lights flickering or radio malfunctioning, which can be alarming.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U00A6 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause is a faulty wiring harness or poor connections, which has a likelihood of around 40%. Corrosion or damage in wiring can disrupt communication.
  2. Another frequent cause is a defective body control module (BCM), which could be responsible for managing multiple electrical functions, leading to a technical communication breakdown between modules.
  3. A third potential cause is software issues within the modules, which may require updates or reprogramming to resolve conflicts in communication protocols.
  4. Less commonly, issues may arise from external devices or accessories that interfere with the vehicle's electrical systems, potentially causing communication errors.
  5. A rare but possible cause is total module failure, which would require replacement of the affected module to restore communication.

U00A6 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Repair

Repair or replace damaged wiring or connectors in the communication circuit.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
BCM Replacement

Replace the faulty body control module if it has been diagnosed as the issue.

  • Total: $500 - $800
  • Success rate: 90%
Software Update

Perform software updates or reprogramming on the affected modules to resolve communication issues.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for U00A6
  • 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 U00A6 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U00A6. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (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 fault context (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (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: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components, especially the BCM (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components, especially the BCM (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: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (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: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure no codes reappear (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure no codes reappear (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: 2017 Ford Explorer Communication Issue

Vehicle: 2017 Ford Explorer, 65,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported that the check engine light was on and power windows were intermittently malfunctioning.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed the U00A6 code. A visual inspection found corroded wiring in the door module.

Solution: Repaired the wiring and cleared the code. Function tests confirmed all systems were operational.

Cost: $200 for wiring repair.

Result: Customer reported no further issues after the repair, with all electrical components functioning normally.

Case Study 2: 2018 Ford F-150 BCM Replacement

Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles

Problem: Driver experienced multiple electrical failures, including dashboard lights flickering and stability control warning light on.

Diagnosis: U00A6 was confirmed, and a faulty body control module was diagnosed after testing.

Solution: Replaced the BCM and reprogrammed it to ensure proper communication with other modules.

Cost: $600 for BCM replacement and programming.

Result: Post-repair, all electrical systems operated correctly, and the warning lights were cleared.

Diagnose U00A6

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: U00A6
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes