U0105 - Lost Communication with Transmission Control Module (TCM) - Common in 2012-2018 Ford Focus and 2014-2019 Chevrolet Impala

Quick Answer

U0105 means: The U0105 code signifies lost communication with the Transmission Control Module, affecting vehicle performance.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $400 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U0105? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid further damage to the transmission.

Common Questions

What does U0105 mean and how does it affect my car?

The U0105 code indicates a communication failure between your car's Engine Control Module and the Transmission Control Module. This can lead to erratic shifting, decreased performance, and even transmission damage if not addressed quickly.

What are the most common causes of U0105 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of U0105 include faulty wiring (60% likelihood), defective TCM, and CAN bus failure. Repair costs can range from $150 to $1,200 depending on the issue.

Can I drive my car with U0105 or should I stop immediately?

It's recommended to stop driving your vehicle immediately if you see the U0105 code. Continuing to drive can lead to further transmission damage and costly repairs.

How can I diagnose U0105 myself using GeekOBD APP?

You can use the GeekOBD APP to scan your vehicle for DTCs, retrieve freeze frame data, and monitor live data to understand the conditions under which the U0105 code was triggered.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0105?

Vehicles like the 2012-2018 Ford Focus and 2014-2019 Chevrolet Impala frequently experience the U0105 code, often due to common wiring issues or TCM failures.

How can I prevent U0105 from happening again?

Regular maintenance, including inspections of wiring and connectors, and timely software updates can help prevent the recurrence of the U0105 code.

What is U0105?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0105 indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has lost communication with the Transmission Control Module (TCM). This issue can arise due to a variety of reasons such as faulty wiring, a malfunctioning TCM, or problems in the CAN (Controller Area Network) bus. In practical terms, when a vehicle experiences this DTC, the driver may notice significant changes in how the car operates, such as erratic shifting or the inability to shift gears altogether. This can lead to a severe degradation in performance, making driving unsafe and potentially causing further damage to the transmission system. If left unaddressed, a U0105 code could result in high repair costs down the line, as the underlying issues can escalate. It's crucial for car owners to take this code seriously and seek diagnosis and repair promptly to ensure their vehicle remains safe and reliable. Regular maintenance and using diagnostic tools like the GeekOBD APP can help catch such issues early.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U0105 is present:

  • The check engine light is illuminated, often accompanied by other warning lights.
  • The vehicle experiences harsh shifting or may not shift at all, resulting in a significant driving inconvenience.
  • Fuel economy may drop noticeably as the vehicle struggles to maintain optimal performance, often by 10-20%.
  • The transmission may go into 'limp mode', where it restricts functionality to prevent further damage.
  • You might hear unusual noises from the transmission area, such as grinding or clunking sounds during gear changes.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U0105 (ordered by frequency):

  1. {'cause': 'Faulty wiring or connectors', 'likelihood': '60%', 'details': 'Corroded or damaged wiring can interrupt the communication between the ECM and TCM, leading to U0105.'}
  2. {'cause': 'Defective Transmission Control Module', 'details': 'A malfunctioning TCM can prevent proper communication, resulting in erratic shifting behavior.'}
  3. {'cause': 'CAN bus failure', 'details': 'Issues in the CAN bus system can disrupt communication, leading to multiple DTCs appearing alongside U0105.'}
  4. {'cause': 'Software issues', 'details': 'Sometimes, the vehicle may require a software update to resolve communication problems.'}
  5. {'cause': 'Severe transmission damage', 'details': 'In rare cases, internal transmission damage may cause the TCM to stop communicating with the ECM.'}

U0105 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Repair

Repair or replacement of damaged wiring and connectors to restore communication.

  • Total: $150 - $400
  • Success rate: 80%
Transmission Control Module Replacement

Replacing the TCM if it is determined to be defective.

  • Total: $500 - $1,200
  • Success rate: 90%
Software Update

Updating the vehicle's software to resolve communication issues.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for U0105
  • 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 U0105 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0105. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the TCM to identify any visible damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the TCM to identify any visible damage 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: Use the GeekOBD APP to scan for all DTCs and retrieve freeze frame data to understand the context in which U0105 appeared (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to scan for all DTCs and retrieve freeze frame data to understand the context in which U0105 appeared (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: Conduct component testing with a multimeter to check the voltage and ground at the TCM and related circuits (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Conduct component testing with a multimeter to check the voltage and ground at the TCM and related circuits (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: If necessary, replace or re-flash the TCM and perform a system function test to ensure proper operation (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: If necessary, replace or re-flash the TCM and perform a system function test to ensure proper operation (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: Take the vehicle for a road test under various conditions to confirm that the U0105 code does not reappear (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Take the vehicle for a road test under various conditions to confirm that the U0105 code does not 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: Transmission Issues on 2015 Ford Focus

Vehicle: 2015 Ford Focus, 75,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported the check engine light was on and the vehicle was shifting harshly.

Diagnosis: Initial scan showed U0105 alongside other transmission-related codes. A visual inspection revealed corroded wiring.

Solution: Replaced the damaged wiring harness and cleared the DTCs.

Cost: $350

Result: The vehicle's performance returned to normal, and no further issues were reported.

Case Study 2: TCM Replacement on 2016 Chevrolet Impala

Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Impala, 60,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced loss of power and erratic shifting with the check engine light illuminated.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan confirmed U0105. TCM was tested and found faulty.

Solution: Replaced the TCM and updated the vehicle's software.

Cost: $1,100

Result: Post-repair tests showed normal shifting and improved performance.

Diagnose U0105

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: U0105
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes