U0553 - Lost Communication with Steering Angle Sensor - Common in 2014-2018 Ford F-150 and 2017-2020 Honda CR-V

Quick Answer

U0553 means: U0553 indicates a communication failure with the steering angle sensor.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $100 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U0553? Immediate attention is advisable to ensure vehicle safety.

Common Questions

What does U0553 mean and how does it affect my car?

The U0553 code indicates a communication failure between your vehicle's onboard computer and the steering angle sensor. This can lead to handling issues and decreased safety features. If ignored, it may affect your car's stability and can compromise safety systems like anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control.

What are the most common causes of U0553 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of U0553 include damaged wiring harnesses, malfunctioning steering angle sensors, or software glitches in the ECM. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $450 for sensor replacement, depending on the specific issue and parts needed.

Can I drive my car with U0553 or should I stop immediately?

It is recommended to address the U0553 code promptly. Driving with this code can lead to safety issues, as vital handling and stability features may not function correctly. If you notice symptoms like erratic steering or warning lights, avoid driving until the issue is diagnosed.

How can I diagnose U0553 myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose U0553 using the GeekOBD APP, start by connecting the app to your vehicle and running a full OBD2 scan. Look for the U0553 code among others, and check the freeze frame data for context. Use the app to clear codes after repairs, and monitor for any reoccurrences.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0553?

The U0553 code is frequently found in vehicles such as the 2014-2018 Ford F-150 and 2017-2020 Honda CR-V. Be sure to check for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to the steering angle sensor for your specific model.

How can I prevent U0553 from happening again?

To prevent U0553 from recurring, regularly inspect the wiring and connectors associated with your steering angle sensor for signs of wear or corrosion. Ensure that any aftermarket accessories are professionally installed to avoid electrical interference.

What is U0553?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0553 indicates a communication issue between the vehicle's onboard computer and the steering angle sensor. This sensor is crucial for systems like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). When the U0553 code is triggered, it means that the Engine Control Module (ECM) is unable to receive or interpret data from the steering angle sensor, which can lead to potential safety issues while driving. In practical terms, this may affect the vehicle's handling, leading to problems like erratic steering response or failure of critical safety features. A common scenario where you might encounter this code is when there is a loose connection or damaged wiring harness that connects the steering angle sensor to the ECM. If left unresolved, this issue can result in decreased vehicle stability or even an inability to engage certain safety features. Therefore, understanding and addressing the U0553 code is vital for maintaining both vehicle performance and safety on the road.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U0553 is present:

  • The check engine light illuminates and remains on, indicating a fault with the steering angle sensor communication.
  • Steering feels loose or unresponsive, leading to concerns about vehicle stability and control.
  • Erratic brake behavior, such as the anti-lock braking system (ABS) activating unexpectedly during normal driving conditions.
  • Driver assistance features, like lane-keeping assist, may become non-functional, compromising safety systems.
  • Increased fuel consumption may occur due to improper communication affecting engine management systems.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U0553 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause is a damaged wiring harness or connector, responsible for about 60% of cases. Over time, exposure to elements can lead to corrosion or breakage.
  2. A malfunctioning steering angle sensor itself, which can occur due to wear and tear or manufacturing defects, accounts for approximately 25% of U0553 occurrences.
  3. Software glitches in the ECM can lead to miscommunication with the sensor, which can sometimes be resolved with a software update or reset.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a faulty ECM that fails to process input from the steering angle sensor correctly, which can lead to safety-critical failures.
  5. A rare cause could be interference from aftermarket parts or accessories installed in the vehicle, affecting the signal integrity between the sensor and the ECM.

U0553 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Harness Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring that connects the steering angle sensor to the ECM.

  • Total: $100 - $300
  • Success rate: 90%
Steering Angle Sensor Replacement

Replacing a malfunctioning steering angle sensor with a new unit.

  • Total: $150 - $450
  • Success rate: 85%
ECM Software Update

Updating the ECM software to resolve communication issues.

  • Total: $50 - $150
  • Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for U0553
  • 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 U0553 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0553. 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 the steering angle sensor and its connections (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the steering angle sensor and its connections (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 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).

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 all systems are functional (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure all systems are functional (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: Steering Angle Sensor Replacement in 2016 Ford F-150

Vehicle: 2016 Ford F-150, 70,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported the check engine light on and steering felt loose.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed U0553. Visual inspection showed frayed wiring on the steering angle sensor harness.

Solution: Replaced the damaged wiring and the steering angle sensor.

Cost: $350 (including parts and labor)

Result: Post-repair, the steering was restored to normal function, and the check engine light remained off.

Case Study 2: ECM Software Update on 2018 Honda CR-V

Vehicle: 2018 Honda CR-V, 40,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced erratic steering and the vehicle's stability control system was inactive.

Diagnosis: U0553 was found after scanning. The system was checked, and software was outdated.

Solution: Performed a software update on the ECM, which resolved the communication issue.

Cost: $100 (for the software update)

Result: Stability control system resumed normal operation, and the steering function was restored.

Diagnose U0553

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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Code Information

Code: U0553
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes