Quick Answer
U0187 means: DTC U0187 indicates a communication breakdown between the ECM and ABS module in your vehicle.
Can I drive with U0187? You should not drive your vehicle until this issue is resolved to avoid safety risks.
Common Questions
What does U0187 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC U0187 signifies a communication loss between your vehicle's engine and the ABS module, which can affect critical safety features. If this code appears, it indicates that your braking system may not function as intended, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations.
What are the most common causes of U0187 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most frequent causes of U0187 include damaged wiring (60% likelihood), faulty ABS modules (25%), and poor connections. Repair costs can range from $150 for wiring repairs to over $1200 for module replacement, depending on the severity of the issue.
Can I drive my car with U0187 or should I stop immediately?
It is not safe to drive your vehicle with U0187 active. Doing so may impair your braking system, which could lead to severe safety risks. It is best to address this code before continuing to use the vehicle.
How can I diagnose U0187 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, start by scanning for DTCs to confirm U0187 and check for any related codes. Review freeze frame data to understand when the issue occurred. Follow up with visual inspections and component testing if you have the tools available.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0187?
DTC U0187 is frequently found in vehicles like the 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2016-2020 Chevrolet Silverado. Owners of these models should be particularly vigilant about ABS system maintenance and any warning lights.
How can I prevent U0187 from happening again?
Regular maintenance of your vehicle's electrical systems, including inspecting wiring and connectors for wear and corrosion, can help prevent U0187. Keeping your vehicle's software updated can also mitigate potential issues.
What is U0187?
DTC U0187 indicates a communication failure between the vehicle's engine control module (ECM) and the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. This code is primarily associated with modern vehicles equipped with advanced safety features that rely on the ABS for optimal performance. When the ECM fails to receive or send data to the ABS module, it can result in critical issues, such as loss of traction control or stability assistance. For vehicle owners, this may mean that essential safety features like anti-lock brakes won't function properly, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. Commonly found in vehicles like the 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2016-2020 Chevrolet Silverado, this code typically emerges due to wiring issues, faulty connectors, or malfunctioning modules. Driving with this code active is not advisable, as it indicates a serious communication problem that could lead to reduced braking efficiency. Addressing U0187 promptly is crucial to ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0187 is present:
- The check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a persistent issue that requires attention.
- You might experience a lack of traction control or stability management, leading to potential handling issues, especially in slippery conditions.
- The vehicle could exhibit erratic braking behavior, which may include the brakes engaging unexpectedly or failing to respond appropriately.
- You might notice an increase in stopping distances, as the ABS may not activate, leading to decreased braking performance.
- In some cases, you may hear unusual noises from the brake system when attempting to brake, indicating a malfunction.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0187 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of U0187 is a damaged or corroded wiring harness, with about 60% likelihood. This can happen due to exposure to moisture or physical wear over time.
- Another frequent cause is a faulty ABS module, which may fail due to internal electronic malfunctions. This scenario accounts for approximately 25% of U0187 cases.
- Poor connections at the wiring harness or connectors can lead to intermittent communication issues. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent this problem.
- A less common but serious cause could be software issues within the vehicle's control modules, which may require a software update to resolve.
- In rare instances, a malfunctioning ECM itself can lead to U0187. This is a serious issue and usually indicates that the ECM needs replacement.
U0187 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repair or replacement of damaged wiring and connectors associated with the ABS module.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 80%
ABS Module Replacement
Replacing a faulty ABS module if repairs are not viable.
- Total: $500 - $1200
- Success rate: 90%
ECM Reprogramming
Reprogramming or replacing the ECM if software issues are found.
- Total: $300 - $800
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for U0187
- 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 U0187 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0187. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection of the wiring harness and connectors related to the ABS module
Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection of the wiring harness and connectors related to the ABS module. Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to run a complete OBD2 scan
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to run a complete OBD2 scan. Retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and any related issues (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Conduct component testing using a multimeter to verify the integrity of the wiring and connectors
Step 3: Conduct component testing using a multimeter to verify the integrity of the wiring and connectors. This may include checking for continuity and shorts (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: After making repairs, perform a system function test to ensure the ABS and ECM are communicating properly
Step 4: After making repairs, perform a system function test to ensure the ABS and ECM are communicating properly. Clear the codes and verify the issue has been resolved (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Conduct a road test under various conditions to confirm the repair's success
Step 5: Conduct a road test under various conditions to confirm the repair's success. Monitor for any recurrence of the DTC (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: 2017 Ford F-150 - U0187 Resolution
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, Mileage: 65,000
Problem: Owner reported ABS warning light and erratic braking behavior.
Diagnosis: Initial scans revealed U0187. Inspection found damaged wiring at the ABS module.
Solution: Repaired the wiring and secured connections, ensuring no further corrosion.
Cost: $200 (Parts: $50, Labor: $150)
Result: Post-repair tests confirmed successful communication with the ABS module, restoring normal function.
Case Study 2: Repair Case: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - U0187 Fix
Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, Mileage: 45,000
Problem: ABS warning light illuminated, and traction control was disabled.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan confirmed U0187. Further testing indicated a faulty ABS module.
Solution: Replaced the ABS module with a new unit and reprogrammed the ECM.
Cost: $950 (Parts: $800, Labor: $150)
Result: After replacement, the ABS system functioned correctly, and the warning lights were cleared.