Quick Answer
U013E means: DTC U013E indicates a communication loss with the steering angle sensor module.
Can I drive with U013E? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe driving.
Common Questions
What does U013E mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC U013E indicates a communication failure with your vehicle's steering angle sensor, which can lead to issues with steering responsiveness and stability control. If your vehicle experiences this code, you may notice warning lights on your dashboard and potential steering difficulties, which can compromise your safety.
What are the most common causes of U013E and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of U013E include damaged wiring (60% likelihood) and faulty sensors (15%). Repair costs can range from $100 to $400, depending on whether you need wiring repairs or a sensor replacement.
Can I drive my car with U013E or should I stop immediately?
It's advisable to stop driving if you see the U013E code indicated. The communication loss can affect your steering control and overall vehicle safety, making it risky to continue driving until the issue is resolved.
How can I diagnose U013E myself using GeekOBD APP?
With the GeekOBD APP, you can start by connecting it to your vehicle's OBD2 port and retrieving the trouble codes. Analyze the freeze frame data to see how the vehicle was performing when the code was triggered, which can provide clues for diagnosis.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U013E?
U013E is frequently found in the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado. Owners of these vehicles should be vigilant about potential steering issues and stay updated on any recalls or technical service bulletins.
How can I prevent U013E from happening again?
To prevent U013E, conduct regular checks of your vehicle's wiring and connectors, especially in harsh environments. Keeping your vehicle's software updated can also help prevent communication issues.
What is U013E?
DTC U013E refers to a communication issue within the automotive network, specifically indicating a loss of communication with the steering angle sensor module. This code can appear in various vehicles but is notably prevalent in models like the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado. In simpler terms, when your vehicle's onboard computer detects that it can't communicate with the steering angle sensor, it triggers the U013E trouble code. This can lead to a range of issues including erratic steering behavior, problems with stability control systems, and may even disable certain safety features. For drivers, this might manifest as warnings on the dashboard, such as the ABS light or stability control light illuminating. If left unaddressed, it can not only affect the driving experience but also compromise safety, as the steering response may become unpredictable. Therefore, addressing this fault promptly is crucial for ensuring both vehicle performance and driver safety.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U013E is present:
- Check engine light or stability control light illuminates on the dashboard, indicating a system malfunction.
- Steering feels loose or unresponsive, making it difficult to control the vehicle, particularly during high-speed maneuvers.
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) may not function properly, leading to potential braking issues.
- Vehicle may enter limp mode, restricting engine power and limiting speed as a safety precaution.
- Erratic shifting of the transmission, which may occur due to communication issues between modules.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U013E (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is damaged wiring or connectors related to the steering angle sensor, occurring in about 60% of cases. This can happen due to wear and tear or environmental factors.
- Corrosion in the connectors can lead to poor connection quality, potentially caused by moisture intrusion, which can disrupt communication and is seen in about 25% of cases.
- Faulty steering angle sensor itself can also lead to this code being triggered, and is often preventable through regular inspections and maintenance.
- Less commonly, issues with the Body Control Module (BCM) or the vehicle's central computer can cause communication failures, though this is more serious and should be diagnosed by professionals.
- In rare cases, software glitches within the vehicle's control modules can trigger this code, often resolved through a software update.
U013E Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repair or replacement of damaged wiring or connectors related to the steering angle sensor.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Steering Angle Sensor Replacement
Replacement of the steering angle sensor to restore proper function.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 85%
BCM Software Update
Updating the Body Control Module's software to resolve communication issues.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for U013E
- 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 U013E Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U013E. 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).
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).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (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: Steering Issue Resolved in 2018 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported the stability control light was on and steering felt loose.
Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, U013E was retrieved. Visual inspection revealed damaged wiring at the steering column.
Solution: Replaced the damaged wiring and connectors, then cleared the codes and confirmed functionality.
Cost: $250 (including parts and labor)
Result: Steering responsiveness was restored, and no further issues were reported.
Case Study 2: Sensor Replacement on 2019 Chevy Silverado
Vehicle: 2019 Chevy Silverado, 30,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced the ABS light illuminating and inconsistent steering feedback.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan showed U013E. Testing indicated a faulty steering angle sensor.
Solution: Replaced the steering angle sensor and performed a system reset.
Cost: $350 (parts and labor included)
Result: All systems returned to normal operation, with no further warning lights.