Quick Answer
U0273 means: U0273 signifies a communication failure between vehicle control modules.
Can I drive with U0273? Address this code promptly to avoid safety risks and further electrical issues.
Common Questions
What does U0273 mean and how does it affect my car?
U0273 indicates a communication failure among your vehicle's control modules. This can lead to various performance issues, including poor engine function and malfunctioning safety features. If ignored, it may escalate into more significant electrical problems.
What are the most common causes of U0273 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include damaged wiring (60% of cases) and faulty control modules. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to over $1,200 for module replacements, depending on the specific issue.
Can I drive my car with U0273 or should I stop immediately?
While it may be possible to drive your vehicle, it is not advisable as U0273 may affect critical systems. It's best to address the issue promptly to ensure safety and vehicle functionality.
How can I diagnose U0273 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port to read and reset codes. Look for freeze frame data to understand the vehicle's condition when the code was triggered and check for other related codes.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0273?
DTC U0273 is frequently seen in models like the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and 2017-2021 Chevrolet Silverado due to their complex electronic systems.
How can I prevent U0273 from happening again?
Regular maintenance of your vehicle's electrical system, including checking connections and grounding, can help prevent U0273. Keeping up with software updates is also crucial.
What is U0273?
The DTC U0273 code indicates a communication issue between various control modules in your vehicle. When this code is triggered, it means that one or more modules are unable to communicate with the vehicle's main control unit or with each other. This disruption in communication can lead to a variety of problems, including malfunctioning features, poor engine performance, and even safety issues. For instance, if your vehicle's traction control module can't communicate with the engine control module, it might affect the vehicle's stability during slippery conditions. Moreover, this code may often accompany other diagnostic trouble codes, which should also be addressed as they may provide further insight into the underlying issue. Vehicles that commonly experience this issue include the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and the 2017-2021 Chevrolet Silverado. If you see the U0273 code, it’s crucial not to ignore it, as it can lead to more serious electrical issues if left unresolved.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0273 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating potential communication issues.
- Engine performance may be erratic, with noticeable hesitation during acceleration.
- Fuel economy could decrease by 10-15% due to inefficient communication between modules.
- Driver assistance features, like traction control, may become non-functional, affecting vehicle stability.
- In some cases, you might notice intermittent electrical failures in other systems, like lights or infotainment.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0273 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of U0273 is damaged wiring or connectors, which accounts for about 60% of cases. This can happen due to wear and tear, corrosion, or physical damage.
- A second common cause is a faulty control module. If a specific module fails, it might not send or receive signals correctly, leading to communication errors.
- Poor ground connections can also lead to this code appearing. Ensuring your vehicle’s electrical system is properly grounded can help prevent these issues.
- Less common but serious causes include software glitches in the vehicle’s firmware, which may require a dealer to update or reprogram the modules.
- On rare occasions, external factors like electromagnetic interference can disrupt signals between modules, triggering the U0273 code.
U0273 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors to restore communication.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Control module replacement
Replacing a faulty module that is causing communication errors.
- Total: $400 - $1,200
- Success rate: 90%
Software update
Updating the vehicle’s firmware to fix software-related issues.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for U0273
- 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 U0273 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0273. 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 a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a 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 the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the 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: Repair of U0273 in a 2018 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150, 50,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light and intermittent failures of traction control.
Diagnosis: Visual inspection revealed frayed wiring in the engine compartment.
Solution: Repaired wiring harness and secured all connections.
Cost: $250 for parts and labor
Result: Check engine light cleared, and traction control functioned normally after repair.
Case Study 2: U0273 Resolution in a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado
Vehicle: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, 30,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced check engine light and reduced engine power.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan showed U0273 alongside a faulty engine control module code.
Solution: Replaced the engine control module and reprogrammed it.
Cost: $950 for parts and programming
Result: Vehicle performed optimally post-repair, with no further issues.