Quick Answer
U0136 means: DTC U0136 signifies a communication failure with the Steering Angle Sensor Module.
Can I drive with U0136? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe vehicle operation.
Common Questions
What does U0136 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC U0136 means there's a failure in communication with the Steering Angle Sensor Module, which affects your vehicle's stability and handling. If ignored, it can lead to safety issues, especially in slippery conditions.
What are the most common causes of U0136 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include faulty wiring (60% likelihood), a defective steering angle sensor, or software glitches. Repairs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $400 for sensor replacement.
Can I drive my car with U0136 or should I stop immediately?
While you may still drive your vehicle, it's advised to address the U0136 code promptly to ensure safe handling and stability, especially during adverse weather conditions.
How can I diagnose U0136 myself using GeekOBD APP?
With the GeekOBD APP, perform a full system scan to check for DTCs. Review freeze frame data for context, and use live data features to monitor the steering angle sensor's performance.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0136?
Vehicles like the 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, 2016-2019 Ford Explorer, and various models from Toyota and Honda frequently experience this issue, especially those over five years old.
How can I prevent U0136 from happening again?
Regular maintenance checks, including inspecting wiring and connectors for wear and ensuring the battery is in good condition, can help prevent future issues with the steering angle sensor.
What is U0136?
DTC U0136 indicates a communication issue between the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM) and the Steering Angle Sensor Module (SASM). This code typically arises when the ECM cannot receive data from the SASM, which plays a vital role in stability control systems. The steering angle sensor detects the position of the steering wheel and relays that information to various systems, including traction control and electronic stability control. When the connection is lost, you may experience a range of symptoms, such as an illuminated check engine light, issues with vehicle handling, or even the activation of the stability control warning. In practical terms, if you're experiencing this code, it could affect your car's handling, making it less responsive to steering inputs. Vehicles commonly affected include the 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2016-2019 Ford Explorer, among others. Ignoring this code may not only lead to performance issues but could also compromise your safety, especially in adverse driving conditions.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0136 is present:
- Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a persistent issue that needs addressing.
- Steering feels unresponsive or overly loose, affecting handling and control.
- Stability control light may flash intermittently, signaling problems with traction management.
- Difficulty in maintaining a straight line while driving, prompting concerns over vehicle safety.
- Unexpected activation of traction control or stability control systems, resulting in unpredictable driving behavior.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0136 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty wiring or connections between the ECM and SASM, which accounts for about 60% of cases, often resulting from wear or corrosion.
- Defective steering angle sensor that may need replacement; this is a common issue in vehicles over five years old.
- Software glitches in the ECM that can sometimes be resolved with a simple update, potentially saving on repair costs.
- Less common but serious issues include internal faults within the ECM, which may require significant repairs or replacement.
- Rarely, issues could arise from external factors such as a failing battery or poor grounding that disrupts communication.
U0136 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repair of damaged wiring or connections, often the most common fix for U0136.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Steering Angle Sensor Replacement
Replacing a defective steering angle sensor if the wiring is intact.
- Total: $200 - $400
- Success rate: 90%
ECM Software Update
Updating the ECM software if a glitch is detected.
- Total: $50 - $100
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for U0136
- 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 U0136 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0136. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Conduct a visual inspection - Look for damaged wiring, loose connections, or signs of corrosion around the SASM and ECM (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Conduct a visual inspection - Look for damaged wiring, loose connections, or signs of corrosion around the SASM and ECM (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan - Retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data to gather context about the issue (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan - Retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data to gather context about the issue (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Test components - Utilize a multimeter or specialized diagnostic tools to check the SASM and related circuits for continuity and proper voltage (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Test components - Utilize a multimeter or specialized diagnostic tools to check the SASM and related circuits for continuity and proper voltage (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: Conduct system function tests - After making any repairs, verify the operation of the SASM and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: Conduct system function tests - After making any repairs, verify the operation of the SASM and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Perform a road test - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the repair has resolved the issue and no codes return (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Perform a road test - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the repair has resolved the issue and no codes return (15-20 minutes).
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: 2016 Ford Explorer with U0136
Vehicle: 2016 Ford Explorer, 65,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported stability control light flashing and steering felt loose.
Diagnosis: Initial OBD2 scan revealed U0136. Visual inspection showed corroded wiring harness.
Solution: Replaced damaged wiring and secured all connections. Cleared codes and performed a system function test.
Cost: $250
Result: Steering responsiveness improved, and no codes returned after the road test.
Case Study 2: Repair Case: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado with U0136
Vehicle: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, 80,000 miles
Problem: Check engine light on and traction control system malfunctioning.
Diagnosis: Scanned for DTCs and confirmed U0136. Component testing indicated a faulty steering angle sensor.
Solution: Replaced the steering angle sensor and updated the ECM software. Conducted road test to verify repairs.
Cost: $350
Result: Vehicle handling returned to normal, and all systems functioned correctly post-repair.