Quick Answer
U0579 means: U0579 indicates a communication error with the steering control module.
Can I drive with U0579? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe driving.
Common Questions
What does U0579 mean and how does it affect my car?
The U0579 code signifies a communication error between the steering control module and other vehicle modules. This can lead to difficulties in steering, increased effort required to turn, and potential safety concerns. It's crucial to diagnose and fix this issue to maintain safe vehicle operation.
What are the most common causes of U0579 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of U0579 include faulty wiring (50% likelihood), a malfunctioning steering control module (30%), and poor ground connections (10%). Repair costs can range from $150 for wiring repairs to $800 for module replacement, depending on the severity of the issue.
Can I drive my car with U0579 or should I stop immediately?
Driving with U0579 is not recommended, as it can lead to significant steering difficulties and safety hazards. If you encounter this code, seek immediate professional assistance to ensure your vehicle's safety.
How can I diagnose U0579 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port and perform a scan to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes. Review the freeze frame data for context around the U0579 code, and inspect any related wiring or connectors based on the information gathered.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0579?
U0579 is commonly seen in the 2015-2019 Ford F-150. However, other models from Ford and certain GM vehicles may also experience this code due to similar steering control systems.
How can I prevent U0579 from happening again?
To prevent U0579, maintain regular inspections of your vehicle's wiring and connectors, keep the battery in good condition, and ensure software updates are performed as recommended by the manufacturer.
What is U0579?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0579 indicates a communication error between the steering control module and other modules in the vehicle. This code is often triggered when the steering control module fails to receive or send data to the vehicle's network, which can lead to various performance issues. This malfunction can affect how the vehicle handles and responds during driving, resulting in a potential loss of power steering assistance. Drivers might experience increased steering effort, especially at low speeds, impacting overall driving safety and comfort. Commonly found in vehicles such as the 2015-2019 Ford F-150, this issue can arise due to faulty wiring, poor connections, or a defective steering control module itself. If left unaddressed, it could lead to further complications, including complete steering failure, which could pose serious safety risks. Regular diagnostic checks using tools like the GeekOBD APP can help identify this code early and prevent more extensive repairs down the line.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0579 is present:
- Check engine light illuminates, indicating a need for diagnostic examination.
- Increased steering effort, particularly noticeable during low-speed maneuvers.
- Erratic steering response, where the steering may feel unresponsive or overly sensitive.
- Unusual noises from the steering column when turning, which may indicate deeper issues.
- Loss of power steering assist temporarily during driving, making steering feel heavy.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0579 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty wiring or connectors (50%) - Damaged or corroded wires in the steering control module circuit often lead to communication failures.
- Malfunctioning steering control module (30%) - The module may fail due to internal faults or software issues, disrupting normal communication.
- Poor ground connections (10%) - Insufficient grounding can lead to erratic signals between the modules.
- Battery issues or low voltage (5%) - Insufficient voltage can affect electronic modules' performance, leading to communication errors.
- Rarely, software bugs or updates (5%) - Occasionally, an update or bug in the vehicle's software can cause communication issues.
U0579 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Steering Control Module Replacement
Replacing a faulty steering control module that is causing the U0579 code.
- Total: $300 - $800
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring or connectors in the steering system.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 85%
Software Update
Performing a software update to resolve communication issues.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for U0579
- 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 U0579 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0579. 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: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Test suspected components, including the steering control module, using a multimeter or manufacturer-specific diagnostic tools (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Test suspected components, including the steering control module, using a multimeter or manufacturer-specific diagnostic tools (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: Perform a system function test - Verify proper operation of the steering system after repairs and clear diagnostic codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: Perform a system function test - Verify proper operation of the steering system after repairs and clear diagnostic codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the effectiveness of the repair and ensure no codes reappear (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the effectiveness of the repair and ensure no codes reappear (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: Steering Module Replacement on a 2017 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 40,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported difficulty steering and a persistent check engine light.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed U0579 and subsequent testing confirmed a faulty steering control module.
Solution: Replaced the steering control module and reprogrammed it to communicate with the vehicle's systems.
Cost: $750 (Module: $600, Labor: $150)
Result: Steering function restored, and no further codes appeared after the road test.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado
Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Silverado, 50,000 miles
Problem: Driver experienced erratic steering behavior and intermittent power steering assist.
Diagnosis: U0579 was triggered by damaged wiring in the steering control circuit.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and ensured all connections were secure.
Cost: $200 (Labor: $100, Parts: $100)
Result: Steering performance improved significantly, and the code did not return.