U0247 - Understanding DTC U0247: A Guide for 2015-2018 Ford F-150 and Other Models

Quick Answer

U0247 means: U0247 indicates a communication loss with the Body Control Module.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $300 - $800 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U0247? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid further electrical issues.

Common Questions

What does U0247 mean and how does it affect my car?

DTC U0247 is a communication error with your vehicle's Body Control Module, which can lead to various electrical issues. If you ignore it, you may face problems like malfunctioning lights or even your vehicle not starting.

What are the most common causes of U0247 and how much does it cost to fix?

The most frequent causes include a faulty Body Control Module, damaged wiring, or the need for software updates. Repair costs can range from $100 for software fixes to $800 for BCM replacements.

Can I drive my car with U0247 or should I stop immediately?

While you may be able to drive your vehicle, it is not advisable to do so. Communication issues can lead to unpredictable behavior, and you risk being stranded if the vehicle fails to start.

How can I diagnose U0247 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for codes, view freeze frame data, and monitor live data from your vehicle's modules. Look for any discrepancies that might indicate communication issues.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0247?

The U0247 code is commonly found in 2015-2018 Ford F-150 models, but it can also affect various other vehicles across different manufacturers, particularly those with complex electrical systems.

How can I prevent U0247 from happening again?

Regularly inspect wiring harnesses for wear, ensure connections are clean and tight, and keep your vehicle’s software updated. This preventive maintenance can reduce the risk of communication failures.

What is U0247?

DTC U0247 indicates a communication issue between the vehicle’s control modules, specifically that the vehicle has lost communication with the Body Control Module (BCM). This diagnostic trouble code is often seen in models like the 2015-2018 Ford F-150, but can also affect various other vehicles across multiple brands. When the BCM fails to communicate correctly, it can lead to various electrical issues, such as malfunctioning interior lights, door locks, or even problems with the anti-theft system. In real-world terms, this could mean that your car might not start or could experience unusual behavior, such as flickering lights or intermittent power loss. The U0247 code can serve as a warning sign that should not be ignored, as it can lead to further complications if the underlying cause is not addressed promptly. Repairing issues related to this code typically involves checking wiring harnesses, connectors, and the BCM itself to ensure everything is functioning properly. If the BCM is faulty, it may need to be reprogrammed or replaced, which can be a more complex and expensive repair process.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U0247 is present:

The check engine light remains illuminated constantly, indicating a significant issue that requires diagnosis.
Drivers may notice that the interior lights flicker or do not operate as expected, affecting visibility and comfort.
There could be issues with activating the power door locks or windows, leading to inconvenience during entry and exit.
The vehicle may exhibit problems with starting, such as the ignition not responding or the engine cranking slowly.
In some cases, the anti-theft system may malfunction, preventing the vehicle from starting altogether.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U0247 (ordered by frequency):

{'cause': 'Faulty Body Control Module (BCM) - 40% likelihood', 'details': 'The BCM can fail due to age, electrical surges, or manufacturing defects, leading to communication errors.'}
{'cause': 'Damaged wiring harness or connectors - 30% likelihood', 'details': 'Wiring issues, such as frayed wires or corrosion at connectors, can disrupt communication between modules.'}
{'cause': 'Software glitches or updates required - 20% likelihood', 'details': 'Sometimes, the BCM may need a software update or reprogramming to restore proper communication.'}
{'cause': 'Faulty power supply to the BCM - 5% likelihood', 'details': "Power issues, such as a weak battery or bad ground connections, can affect the BCM's operation."}
{'cause': 'Rare internal faults within other control modules - 5% likelihood', 'details': 'In rare cases, other modules may have internal faults that prevent them from communicating with the BCM.'}

U0247 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

BCM Replacement

Replacing a faulty Body Control Module with a new unit, including labor costs.

Total: $300 - $800
Success rate: 90%

Wiring Repair

Repairing damaged wiring harnesses or connectors that affect communication.

Total: $150 - $400
Success rate: 80%

Software Reprogramming

Updating or reprogramming the BCM software to restore functionality.

Total: $100 - $200
Success rate: 75%

Money-Saving Tips for U0247

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 U0247 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0247. 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). Look around the BCM for any apparent issues.