U011B - Lost Communication with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Control Module in Ford and Chevrolet Models

Quick Answer

U011B means: U011B indicates a loss of communication with the ABS control module.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $100 - $400 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U011B? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid safety risks.

Common Questions

What does U011B mean and how does it affect my car?

U011B indicates that your vehicle's PCM is unable to communicate with the ABS control module. This can affect braking performance, leading to safety concerns. If the ABS system is not functioning correctly, it can compromise your vehicle's ability to stop safely, especially in emergency situations.

What are the most common causes of U011B and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include damaged wiring (40% likelihood), a faulty ABS module (30%), and poor connections (15%). Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to over $1,200 for module replacements, depending on the specific issue.

Can I drive my car with U011B or should I stop immediately?

Driving with U011B is not advisable, as it can lead to compromised braking performance. You should seek immediate repairs to ensure your safety and the reliability of your vehicle's braking system.

How can I diagnose U011B myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose U011B, download the GeekOBD APP and connect it to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Use the app to scan for codes, and review freeze frame data to understand the conditions that led to the fault. Follow the diagnostic steps for further troubleshooting.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U011B?

U011B is frequently reported in models such as the 2013 Ford F-150, 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, and other vehicles with advanced braking systems. Always check for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to ABS issues.

How can I prevent U011B from happening again?

Regular maintenance, including checking electrical connections and wiring harnesses for wear and corrosion, can help prevent U011B. Periodically using the GeekOBD APP for diagnostic checks can also identify potential issues before they lead to codes.

What is U011B?

The U011B diagnostic trouble code indicates a communication failure between the vehicle's powertrain control module (PCM) and the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module. This issue can arise from several factors, including poor electrical connections, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning ABS module itself. In practical terms, this means that your vehicle's braking system may not be functioning optimally, potentially compromising safety. For example, in models like the 2013 Ford F-150 and the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, the U011B code could trigger warnings on the dashboard, including the ABS light or traction control warnings. If left unaddressed, this can lead to extended stopping distances or, in extreme cases, brake failure. It's essential to address this code promptly to ensure the vehicle's safety features are operational and to prevent more severe issues from developing.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U011B is present:

  • The ABS warning light remains illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue with the braking system.
  • The vehicle may experience unexpected braking behavior, such as the brakes engaging without driver input or failing to engage under certain conditions.
  • Drivers may notice a decrease in fuel efficiency, possibly due to the engine running inefficiently while trying to communicate with the ABS module.
  • Unusual noises from the ABS system could be present, such as grinding or clicking sounds while braking.
  • The traction control system may disable itself, causing the vehicle to lose grip during wet or slippery conditions.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U011B (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of U011B is a damaged or corroded wiring harness to the ABS module, with a likelihood of occurrence around 40%. This can disrupt communication between the modules.
  2. A malfunctioning ABS control module itself is the second most common cause, which may happen due to internal faults or software issues, accounting for about 30% of cases.
  3. Poor connections at the ABS module or PCM can lead to communication issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems by ensuring all connectors are tight and free from corrosion.
  4. Less common but notable causes include issues with the PCM itself, which may require reprogramming or replacement, representing about 15% of cases.
  5. A rare cause could be a complete electrical failure within the ABS system, often resulting from extreme circumstances like flooding or fire damage.

U011B Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors to restore communication.

  • Total: $100 - $400
  • Success rate: 85%
ABS Module Replacement

Replacing a faulty ABS control module if diagnostics confirm its failure.

  • Total: $600 - $1,200
  • Success rate: 90%
PCM Reprogramming

Reprogramming or updating the PCM software to fix communication errors.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for U011B
  • 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 U011B Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U011B. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection to check for damaged wiring, loose connectors, or signs of corrosion around the ABS module and wiring harness (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection to check for damaged wiring, loose connectors, or signs of corrosion around the ABS module and wiring harness (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 perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all codes and freeze frame data, which provides context for the U011B code (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all codes and freeze frame data, which provides context for the U011B code (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 using a multimeter to verify the voltage and signal strength at the ABS module and related connections (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Conduct component testing using a multimeter to verify the voltage and signal strength at the ABS module and related connections (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, perform a system function test to ensure the ABS and other systems are operating correctly and clear the codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: After repairs, perform a system function test to ensure the ABS and other systems are operating correctly and clear the 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: Conduct a road test to verify that the ABS system operates as expected under various driving conditions, ensuring no codes return (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Conduct a road test to verify that the ABS system operates as expected under various driving conditions, ensuring no codes return (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: 2013 Ford F-150 U011B Diagnosis and Repair

Vehicle: 2013 Ford F-150, 75,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported ABS warning light and unstable braking performance.

Diagnosis: Initial visual inspection revealed corroded wiring at the ABS module. OBD2 scan confirmed U011B.

Solution: Replaced damaged wiring and connectors to restore communication between modules.

Cost: $350

Result: Customer reported normal braking performance, and ABS light turned off after repair.

Case Study 2: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado U011B Resolution

Vehicle: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, 60,000 miles

Problem: ABS light illuminated; brakes felt unresponsive at times.

Diagnosis: Diagnostics indicated faulty ABS control module leading to U011B code.

Solution: Replaced the ABS control module and reprogrammed the PCM.

Cost: $900

Result: Braking performance restored, and no warning lights present post-repair.

Diagnose U011B

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: U011B
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes