U0539 - Lost Communication with Body Control Module (BCM) | Common in 2013-2018 Ford F-150

Quick Answer

U0539 means: U0539 indicates a communication failure with the Body Control Module.

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

Can I drive with U0539? Immediate diagnosis is recommended to ensure vehicle safety.

Common Questions

What does U0539 mean and how does it affect my car?

The U0539 code signifies a lost communication with the Body Control Module (BCM). This can lead to several electronic issues in your vehicle, such as non-functioning lights or windows. If you ignore this code, you may face more significant problems down the line, including safety hazards while driving.

What are the most common causes of U0539 and how much does it cost to fix?

U0539 is often caused by a faulty BCM, damaged wiring, or poor electrical connections. Repair costs can vary widely: replacing a BCM may range from $300 to $800, while wiring repairs might cost between $150 and $400. It's essential to get a proper diagnosis to determine the exact cause.

Can I drive my car with U0539 or should I stop immediately?

Driving with a U0539 code is not recommended, as it can lead to malfunctioning safety features like lights or locks. It's best to address the issue as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional.

How can I diagnose U0539 myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose U0539 using the GeekOBD APP, connect it to your vehicle's OBD2 port and run a scan. The app will retrieve the code and any freeze frame data, helping you understand the context of the issue. Look for related codes that may provide further insights into the problem.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0539?

U0539 is commonly found in vehicles like the 2013-2018 Ford F-150, 2015-2019 Chevrolet Silverado, and various Dodge models. If you own any of these vehicles, be aware of this code and its potential implications.

How can I prevent U0539 from happening again?

Regular maintenance of your vehicle's electrical systems can help prevent U0539. This includes checking wiring and connectors for signs of wear, ensuring ground connections are clean, and maintaining software updates as recommended by the manufacturer.

What is U0539?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0539 indicates that there is a communication failure between the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) system and the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is responsible for controlling various electronic systems within your vehicle, such as lighting, power windows, and central locking. When the OBD2 system fails to communicate with the BCM, it triggers the U0539 code. This can lead to a range of issues, including malfunctioning lights, non-responsive power windows, or erratic behavior of electronic features. In practical terms, if you see this code, it could mean that your vehicle's electronic systems may not operate as intended, which can pose safety concerns. For example, if your headlights fail to turn on or off correctly, it could lead to visibility issues while driving at night. It's crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid further complications or safety hazards.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U0539 is present:

  • Check engine light illuminates and remains on, indicating an underlying issue.
  • Power windows may become inoperable or function intermittently, affecting driver convenience.
  • Interior lights may not function correctly, leading to visibility issues inside the vehicle at night.
  • Door locks may not respond to the remote or manual controls, compromising vehicle security.
  • Other electronic features, like the radio or climate control, may behave erratically.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U0539 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of U0539 is a faulty Body Control Module (BCM), occurring in about 40% of cases. This could be due to internal component failure or software issues.
  2. Another frequent cause is damaged wiring or connectors in the communication circuit, accounting for approximately 30% of the cases. Corrosion or physical damage can disrupt signals.
  3. Loose or corroded ground connections for the BCM can also lead to the U0539 code, with a likelihood of around 20%. Regular maintenance of electrical connections can help prevent this issue.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a malfunctioning OBD2 port, which could prevent proper communication between the BCM and diagnostic tools.
  5. A rare cause could be a software glitch in the vehicle's firmware, which may require an update from the manufacturer.

U0539 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

BCM Replacement

Replacing the Body Control Module if it is found to be defective.

  • Total: $300 - $800
  • Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors to restore communication.

  • Total: $150 - $400
  • Success rate: 75%
Software Update

Updating the vehicle's software to fix potential glitches causing communication issues.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 60%
Money-Saving Tips for U0539
  • 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 U0539 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0539. 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). Ensure that the BCM and its connectors are clean and secure.

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). This can help identify related codes that might provide additional insights.

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 the BCM and wiring harness for continuity and voltage (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the BCM and wiring harness for continuity and voltage (20-30 minutes). This ensures that the BCM is receiving and sending signals correctly.

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 using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes). Testing the electronic features that were problematic helps confirm the fix.

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 and ensure that all electronics function as expected (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure that all electronics function as expected (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: 2015 Ford F-150 BCM Replacement

Vehicle: 2015 Ford F-150, 75,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported that the headlights would not turn on intermittently, along with non-responsive power windows.

Diagnosis: After running a diagnostic with the GeekOBD APP, U0539 was identified along with several other codes related to the BCM.

Solution: Replaced the faulty Body Control Module and repaired some damaged wiring that was affecting communication.

Cost: $650 (BCM $500, labor $150)

Result: All electronic functions were restored, and the customer reported no further issues.

Case Study 2: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Wiring Repair

Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 50,000 miles

Problem: Vehicle would not unlock with the remote, and interior lights were malfunctioning.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed U0539, and further inspection showed corroded wiring connectors.

Solution: Cleaned and replaced several corroded connectors, restoring communication.

Cost: $250 (labor $100, parts $150)

Result: All features began functioning correctly, and the customer expressed satisfaction with the repair.

Diagnose U0539

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: U0539
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes