U0110 - Lost Communication with Fuel Level Sensor - Common in 2013-2018 Ford F-150 and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Quick Answer

U0110 means: U0110 indicates a lost communication issue with the fuel level sensor.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $100 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U0110? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid running out of fuel unexpectedly.

Common Questions

What does U0110 mean and how does it affect my car?

The U0110 code signifies a communication problem between your vehicle's ECM and the fuel level sensor. This can lead to inaccurate fuel readings, causing you to potentially run out of gas unexpectedly. Long-term neglect of this issue may affect engine performance and could lead to more costly repairs.

What are the most common causes of U0110 and how much does it cost to fix?

Typical causes include damaged wiring (40% likelihood), a faulty fuel level sensor (30%), and ECM issues (15%). Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $500 for sensor replacement.

Can I drive my car with U0110 or should I stop immediately?

While it may be possible to drive the vehicle short distances, it is not advisable to ignore the U0110 code. Doing so risks running out of fuel unexpectedly, which can lead to safety issues and further damage to the vehicle.

How can I diagnose U0110 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, connect it to your vehicle's OBD2 port, perform a scan, and review the codes. Look for U0110 and any related codes, and analyze the freeze frame data to understand when the fault occurred.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0110?

Commonly affected vehicles include the 2013-2018 Ford F-150 and the 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado. These models frequently experience this issue due to their specific fuel management systems.

How can I prevent U0110 from happening again?

Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking wiring and connectors, ensuring proper fuel system cleanliness, and performing software updates on the ECM, can help prevent future occurrences of the U0110 code.

What is U0110?

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U0110 indicates that there is a communication issue between the Engine Control Module (ECM) and the fuel level sensor. This problem can arise due to various reasons, including wiring issues, a faulty sensor, or problems with the ECM itself. When this code is triggered, it means that the vehicle's onboard computer is unable to receive the necessary data from the fuel level sensor, which can lead to inaccurate fuel readings and potential issues with fuel management. In practical terms, this could mean that the driver may not be able to accurately gauge how much fuel is left in the tank, leading to the risk of running out of gas unexpectedly. Moreover, the vehicle may enter 'limp mode,' reducing engine performance as a precaution. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial for maintaining vehicle performance and reliability. Ignoring it could lead to more severe problems down the line, including engine performance issues or increased repair costs. Proper diagnostics using an OBD2 scanner, such as the GeekOBD APP, can help identify the exact cause of the problem, allowing for more targeted repairs.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U0110 is present:

  • The check engine light is illuminated, often staying on constantly, indicating a fault in the fuel level sensor communication.
  • Drivers may experience erratic fuel gauge readings, where the gauge fluctuates unexpectedly or shows empty even with fuel in the tank.
  • The vehicle may enter limp mode, causing reduced engine power and performance, especially noticeable during acceleration or hill climbing.
  • Fuel economy might decrease noticeably, with reports of drops up to 15% due to improper fuel management.
  • In some cases, drivers may hear unusual noises from the fuel tank area, indicating potential sensor or pump issues.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U0110 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of U0110 is a damaged wiring harness or poor connections, which accounts for approximately 40% of cases. Corrosion or wear can lead to intermittent communication failures.
  2. Another frequent culprit is a faulty fuel level sensor itself, which may fail due to internal component issues or exposure to fuel contaminants, making up about 30% of occurrences.
  3. Issues with the ECM, such as software glitches or hardware failures, can also cause U0110. Regular software updates and diagnostics can help prevent these problems.
  4. Less common but serious causes include short circuits or open circuits in the electrical system, which can lead to more extensive damage if not addressed promptly.
  5. In rare cases, a complete failure of the fuel pump assembly, including the sensor, may occur, necessitating expensive repairs.

U0110 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors related to the fuel level sensor.

  • Total: $100 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
Fuel Level Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty fuel level sensor with a new OEM part.

  • Total: $200 - $500
  • Success rate: 90%
ECM Reprogramming

Reprogramming or updating the ECM to resolve software-related issues.

  • Total: $150 - $400
  • Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for U0110
  • 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 U0110 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0110. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the fuel level sensor for any obvious signs of damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the fuel level sensor for any obvious signs of 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: Utilize the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context better (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Utilize the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context better (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: Test the fuel level sensor with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and resistance, ensuring it functions within specified parameters (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Test the fuel level sensor with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and resistance, ensuring it functions within specified parameters (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: After repairs, conduct a system function test to verify that communication has been restored and clear any DTCs from the system (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: After repairs, conduct a system function test to verify that communication has been restored and clear any DTCs from the system (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: Perform a road test under various conditions to ensure the repair was successful and that the vehicle runs smoothly without triggering the code again (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Perform a road test under various conditions to ensure the repair was successful and that the vehicle runs smoothly without triggering the code again (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: Repair Case Study: 2015 Ford F-150 Fuel Level Sensor Issue

Vehicle: 2015 Ford F-150, 75,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported fluctuating fuel gauge readings, with the check engine light illuminated.

Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, the U0110 code was retrieved, confirming a communication issue with the fuel level sensor. A visual inspection revealed corroded wiring.

Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and replaced the connector. Cleared the DTCs and performed a road test to confirm successful repair.

Cost: $250 (including parts and labor)

Result: Fuel gauge function returned to normal, and the check engine light remained off after the repair.

Case Study 2: Repair Case Study: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Sensor Replacement

Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced inaccurate fuel readings and a check engine light.

Diagnosis: Diagnostics revealed U0110. Further testing identified a faulty fuel level sensor that needed replacement.

Solution: Replaced the fuel level sensor with an OEM part and performed necessary calibrations.

Cost: $400 (parts and labor included)

Result: Post-repair, the fuel gauge functioned properly, and the customer reported no further issues.

Diagnose U0110

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: U0110
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes