Quick Answer
U016A means: U016A indicates a lost communication with the seat control module.
Can I drive with U016A? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure seat adjustments work properly.
Common Questions
What does U016A mean and how does it affect my car?
U016A indicates a communication failure with the seat control module. This affects your ability to adjust the seat, which can lead to discomfort and potential safety issues if the seat is not positioned correctly.
What are the most common causes of U016A and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include damaged wiring (60% likelihood) and a faulty seat control module. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $600 for module replacement.
Can I drive my car with U016A or should I stop immediately?
While you can drive with this code, it's advisable to address it soon. Driving with an improperly adjusted seat can lead to discomfort and safety risks.
How can I diagnose U016A myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve the code and related data. This will help you understand the context of the issue and decide on the next steps.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U016A?
Vehicles such as the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and 2016-2020 Chevrolet Silverado frequently report this code due to their common electronic seat features.
How can I prevent U016A from happening again?
Regular maintenance of electrical systems, including checking connectors and harnesses for wear, can prevent U016A. Also, keeping your vehicle clean and dry helps reduce corrosion.
What is U016A?
DTC U016A refers to a communication error where the vehicle's main computer has lost connection with the seat control module. This can happen due to several reasons, including wiring issues, module failure, or a malfunctioning control unit. When this code is triggered, it typically means that the seat functions such as adjustments for height, tilt, and lumbar support may not operate as intended. In practical terms, this code can affect not only comfort but also safety if the seat position is not correctly adjusted for the driver. Troubleshooting this code often involves checking for any wiring damage, ensuring connectors are secure, and potentially replacing the seat control module if it’s found to be defective. For vehicle owners, especially those with makes like the Ford F-150, understanding this code is crucial because it can directly impact driving experience and safety.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U016A is present:
- The check engine light may illuminate, indicating a problem with the seat control system.
- Seat adjustments (forward/backward, height, and tilt) may fail to respond, causing discomfort during driving.
- You may notice that the memory seat function, if equipped, does not retain or recall settings correctly.
- A lack of response from the seat heating or cooling features can also occur, particularly in climates where these functions are necessary.
- In some cases, you may hear a clicking or buzzing noise from the seat area when attempting to adjust the seat.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U016A (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a damaged wiring harness or poor connection, accounting for about 60% of cases. This often occurs in vehicles subjected to extreme weather or physical wear.
- A malfunctioning seat control module can cause this code too, typically found in older vehicles or those with many electronic features.
- Corrosion on connectors or terminals, especially in humid environments, can lead to intermittent communication failures.
- Less commonly, software issues in the vehicle's main computer can cause communication errors, which might require a software update.
- A rare but serious cause can be a complete failure of the vehicle's body control module, which coordinates multiple systems including the seat control.
U016A Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring or securing loose connections.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Seat Control Module Replacement
Replacing a faulty seat control module with a new one.
- Total: $300 - $600
- Success rate: 95%
Software Update
Updating the vehicle’s software if the issue is due to firmware.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for U016A
- 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 U016A Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U016A. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Begin with a visual inspection of the seat wiring and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Begin with a visual inspection of the seat wiring and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan. Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to gain context on the fault (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Test the seat control module with a multimeter to check for voltage and continuity issues (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Test the seat control module with a multimeter to check for voltage and continuity issues (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: After making any repairs, conduct a function test of the seat adjustments and memory settings (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: After making any repairs, conduct a function test of the seat adjustments and memory settings (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Perform a road test to ensure that all seat functions operate correctly under various driving conditions (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Perform a road test to ensure that all seat functions operate correctly under various driving conditions (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: Seat Control Module Replacement on 2018 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150, 40,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported that the driver’s seat would not adjust, and the check engine light was on.
Diagnosis: Initial inspection revealed damaged wiring. Further testing indicated a faulty seat control module.
Solution: Replaced the seat control module and repaired the wiring harness.
Cost: $500 (Module: $400, Labor: $100)
Result: Customer reported full functionality restored with no further issues.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2017 Chevrolet Silverado
Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 50,000 miles
Problem: The seat adjustments were erratic, and sometimes the seat would not move at all.
Diagnosis: Visual inspection found loose connectors and damaged wiring.
Solution: Secured connections and replaced the damaged wiring.
Cost: $150 (Labor: $100, Parts: $50)
Result: All seat functions returned to normal operation, and the issue was resolved.