U0368 - Understanding and Fixing the Communication Error in Your Vehicle's Network

Quick Answer

U0368 means: U0368 indicates a communication error within your vehicle's electronic control modules.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $100 - $500 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U0368? Address this issue as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

Common Questions

What does U0368 mean and how does it affect my car?

U0368 indicates a communication error between your vehicle's electronic control modules. This may lead to erratic system behavior, reduced performance, and safety feature malfunctions. It's crucial to address this code quickly to maintain your vehicle's functionality.

What are the most common causes of U0368 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include faulty wiring (60% likelihood), malfunctioning control modules, and poor battery connections. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to over $1,200 for module replacements.

Can I drive my car with U0368 or should I stop immediately?

While it may be possible to drive your car with U0368, doing so can lead to further issues and safety risks. It's advisable to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose U0368 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for diagnostic trouble codes, view freeze frame data, and monitor live data streams to identify specific module communication issues. Look for discrepancies in data readings to pinpoint the problem.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0368?

U0368 is frequently seen in models like the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and the 2016-2019 Chevrolet Silverado. It's essential to check for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to electronic communication issues in these cars.

How can I prevent U0368 from happening again?

Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking and cleaning battery connections, inspecting wiring for damage, and keeping software updated, can help prevent the recurrence of U0368.

What is U0368?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0368 indicates a communication error within the vehicle's network, specifically related to the control modules. This code typically arises when the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is not receiving or sending data correctly to other modules or devices within the vehicle's system. Commonly, this issue can occur in vehicles like the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and 2016-2019 Chevrolet Silverado, where multiple modules, such as the ABS, transmission control, and engine control modules, must communicate seamlessly. When these modules fail to communicate properly, it can lead to various performance issues, including erratic behavior of vehicle systems, compromised safety features, and even difficulty in starting the vehicle. As a car owner, it’s crucial to understand that ignoring this code could lead to more severe problems down the line, as it affects the overall functionality of your car. Addressing U0368 promptly is essential to ensure that all vehicle systems operate correctly, ultimately enhancing both safety and performance. Furthermore, you may notice the Check Engine Light illuminating, which is your vehicle's way of alerting you to the issue. Therefore, timely diagnostics and repairs are necessary to prevent further complications.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U0368 is present:

  • Check engine light stays on constantly, alerting you to a potential issue.
  • Vehicle may experience erratic behavior in various systems, such as the transmission shifting poorly.
  • Increased fuel consumption due to engine mismanagement caused by communication errors.
  • Difficulty in starting the vehicle, often requiring multiple attempts.
  • Dashboard warning lights for ABS or traction control may illuminate, indicating system failures.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U0368 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of U0368 is faulty wiring or connectors, which can account for about 60% of cases. Damaged or corroded connections can disrupt communication between modules.
  2. Another significant cause is a malfunctioning control module, which can prevent proper data exchange. This often occurs after a vehicle has experienced water damage or sustained physical impacts.
  3. Poor battery connections can also trigger this code, as insufficient power may lead to erratic behavior in electronic systems. Regular battery maintenance can help prevent this.
  4. Less common but serious causes include software glitches within the ECU or other control modules, which may require reprogramming or updates.
  5. A rare but possible cause is the failure of the vehicle’s main wiring harness, which can disrupt communication across multiple systems.

U0368 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring repair or replacement

Fixing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors to restore communication.

  • Total: $100 - $500
  • Success rate: 85%
Control module replacement

Replacing a faulty control module that is not communicating correctly.

  • Total: $300 - $1,200
  • Success rate: 90%
Software update

Reprogramming or updating the ECU software to fix communication issues.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for U0368
  • 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 U0368 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0368. 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).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
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).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components, such as wiring and modules (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components, such as wiring and modules (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes to see if they return (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes to see if they return (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
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).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

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 Study: 2017 Ford F-150

Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported the Check Engine Light was on and the vehicle experienced erratic shifting.

Diagnosis: An OBD2 scan revealed code U0368. Visual inspection showed corroded wiring in the harness connecting to the transmission module.

Solution: Repaired the corroded wiring and cleared the codes. Conducted a road test to confirm proper shifting.

Cost: $250 (wiring repair and labor)

Result: The vehicle operated normally post-repair with no reoccurrence of the fault.

Case Study 2: Repair Case Study: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, 37,000 miles

Problem: Customer noticed dashboard warning lights for ABS and stability control.

Diagnosis: An OBD2 scan showed U0368 along with other codes. Testing revealed a malfunctioning ABS control module.

Solution: Replaced the ABS control module and updated the ECU software to restore communication.

Cost: $800 (module replacement and programming)

Result: Post-repair, all systems functioned correctly, and warning lights were extinguished.

Diagnose U0368

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: U0368
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes