U065C - Understanding Common in 2016-2020 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra

Quick Answer

U065C means: U065C indicates a communication error between the PCM and other modules in the vehicle.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $600 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U065C? Immediate diagnosis and repair are recommended to prevent further issues.

Common Questions

What does U065C mean and how does it affect my car?

The U065C code signals a communication failure between your vehicle's powertrain control module (PCM) and another electronic control unit. This can lead to various issues, including poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and erratic behavior in systems like the transmission. Addressing this issue promptly is essential to prevent more significant problems.

What are the most common causes of U065C and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of U065C include damaged wiring (60% chance), faulty control modules (25%), and software issues (10%). Repair costs vary: wiring repairs typically range from $150 to $600, while control module replacements can cost between $400 and $1,200. Software updates usually cost around $100 to $200.

Can I drive my car with U065C or should I stop immediately?

It is not advisable to drive your car with U065C, as it indicates a critical communication error that can lead to further damage. If you experience symptoms like engine hesitation or erratic transmission behavior, you should seek immediate diagnosis and repair.

How can I diagnose U065C myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose U065C with the GeekOBD APP, connect the OBD2 scanner to your vehicle, launch the app, and retrieve the diagnostic codes. Review the freeze frame data to understand the conditions when the code was triggered. This information will guide you in pinpointing the issue.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U065C?

Vehicles commonly affected by U065C include 2016-2020 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and other GM models. Issues may arise from specific electrical systems or control modules, and it's advisable to check for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to these models.

How can I prevent U065C from happening again?

To prevent U065C from recurring, regularly inspect your vehicle's wiring and connectors for damage, ensure software updates are performed as needed, and maintain routine diagnostics using tools like the GeekOBD APP to catch issues early.

What is U065C?

The U065C diagnostic trouble code indicates a communication issue within the vehicle's network, specifically related to the powertrain control module (PCM) and other electronic control units (ECUs). When this code appears, it means that the PCM has detected an invalid signal from another module, which can disrupt the vehicle's overall performance. For instance, the vehicle may experience erratic behavior in systems like the transmission and engine, leading to poor driveability. Common vehicles affected by this code include the 2016-2020 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, among other GM models. This problem can stem from various issues, including faulty wiring, a bad control module, or even software glitches. Ignoring this code can lead to worsening vehicle performance and more expensive repairs down the line. Therefore, it’s crucial to address U065C promptly to ensure that all systems communicate effectively and your vehicle operates smoothly. Regular diagnostics using tools like the GeekOBD APP can help detect such issues early, allowing for timely intervention and potentially saving on repair costs.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U065C is present:

  • Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a fault in the vehicle's communication system.
  • Engine may hesitate during acceleration, leading to a less responsive driving experience.
  • Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, as the vehicle's systems are not operating efficiently.
  • Transmission may shift erratically or feel rough during gear changes, which can impact overall safety.
  • Dashboard warning lights for various systems may illuminate randomly, causing confusion for the driver.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U065C (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of U065C (approximately 60%) is a malfunctioning wiring harness or connector, leading to poor communication between modules.
  2. Another cause (about 25%) can be a faulty control module, which may fail to send or receive proper signals, often requiring replacement.
  3. A third cause (10%) could be software issues, where the vehicle's programming may need an update to improve communication protocols.
  4. Less common but serious causes (around 4%) include physical damage to modules or connectors from accidents or corrosion.
  5. Rare causes (1%) might involve factory defects in specific models, which could be subject to recalls or service bulletins.

U065C Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Harness Repair

Repairing or replacing the damaged wiring harness or connectors.

  • Total: $150 - $600
  • Success rate: 85%
Control Module Replacement

Replacing the faulty control module that is causing communication issues.

  • Total: $400 - $1,200
  • Success rate: 90%
Software Update

Updating the vehicle’s software to fix potential programming issues.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for U065C
  • 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 U065C Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U065C. 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 (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components (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 (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (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 of U065C in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 75,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported a check engine light and poor acceleration.

Diagnosis: Performed a full OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP, revealing U065C along with other codes pointing to communication issues.

Solution: Repaired damaged wiring in the harness connecting the PCM to other modules.

Cost: $200 for repairs; wiring parts were $50.

Result: The vehicle ran smoothly post-repair, with no check engine light and improved performance.

Case Study 2: Control Module Replacement in a 2019 GMC Sierra

Vehicle: 2019 GMC Sierra, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced erratic shifting and dashboard warning lights.

Diagnosis: After scanning with GeekOBD APP, U065C was confirmed, and further testing indicated a faulty control module.

Solution: Replaced the faulty PCM and updated software.

Cost: $1,000 (control module $800, labor $200).

Result: Post-repair, the transmission functioned correctly, and the warning lights were cleared.

Diagnose U065C

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: U065C
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes