Quick Answer
U0679 means: U0679 signifies a communication fault with the Body Control Module.
Can I drive with U0679? It is crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid safety hazards.
Common Questions
What does U0679 mean and how does it affect my car?
U0679 indicates a communication issue with the Body Control Module, which can affect various electronic systems in your vehicle. This may lead to malfunctioning lights, power windows, and other critical systems. Ignoring this code can result in further electrical issues and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
What are the most common causes of U0679 and how much does it cost to fix?
The primary causes include damaged wiring (60% likelihood), a faulty Body Control Module (25%), and corroded connectors. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $800 for BCM replacement, depending on the issue.
Can I drive my car with U0679 or should I stop immediately?
It's advisable to address U0679 promptly, as it can lead to safety issues with critical systems. If you experience erratic behavior in your vehicle's electronics, it's best to stop driving and diagnose the problem.
How can I diagnose U0679 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve DTCs and view freeze frame data. This will help you understand when the fault occurred and under what conditions, aiding in your diagnosis.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0679?
Models such as the 2013-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, 2015-2019 Ford F-150, and certain Chrysler vehicles are frequently affected by U0679. Always check for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to your specific model.
How can I prevent U0679 from happening again?
Regular vehicle maintenance, including inspecting electrical connections and keeping the BCM software updated, can help prevent U0679. Addressing any signs of corrosion or wear promptly is also key.
What is U0679?
The U0679 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a communication problem between the vehicle's control modules, specifically pointing to the Body Control Module (BCM). In simple terms, this means that the BCM is having trouble sending or receiving data to/from other modules in the vehicle, which can lead to a variety of operational issues. This code can often be found in popular models like the 2013-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, 2015-2019 Ford F-150, and various Chrysler models. When the BCM encounters a communication failure, it may not be able to control critical functions such as lighting, power windows, and door locks, leading to potential safety risks. The longer the issue persists without resolution, the more complicated and costly the repairs may become. Drivers may experience erratic behavior in electronic systems, such as lights flickering or not responding, which could indicate deeper electrical issues. If left unaddressed, this code can contribute to further breakdowns and could even result in a no-start condition, putting the vehicle at risk of malfunction. Therefore, understanding U0679 is essential for maintaining vehicle safety and reliability.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0679 is present:
- Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating an issue with vehicle systems.
- Power windows may operate erratically, failing to open or close properly.
- Lighting systems, including headlights and interior lights, may flicker or remain non-functional.
- Door locks may not respond to remote commands or manual operation.
- Dashboard indicators may behave inconsistently, showing incorrect information.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0679 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of U0679 is damaged wiring or connectors, with an estimated 60% likelihood. Poor connections can lead to intermittent communication failures.
- Another cause could be a malfunctioning Body Control Module itself, which may occur due to software glitches or internal faults, accounting for about 25% of cases.
- Corroded terminals or connectors can cause communication issues. Regular inspections can help prevent this problem.
- Electrical shorts in the circuit are less common but can lead to serious failures. This may require in-depth diagnostics to isolate.
- A rare cause could be faulty software in the BCM requiring an update or reprogramming, which can be addressed through a dealership service.
U0679 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring and connectors to restore communication.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 80%
BCM Replacement
Replacing the Body Control Module with a new unit, often requiring reprogramming.
- Total: $300 - $800
- Success rate: 90%
Software Update
Updating the BCM software to fix any glitches.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for U0679
- 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 U0679 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0679. 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: 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).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components (20-30 minutes).
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).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (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: Chevrolet Silverado U0679 Communication Issue
Vehicle: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 75,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported inconsistent operation of power windows and dashboard lights.
Diagnosis: Performed a visual inspection; found corroded connectors at the BCM. OBD2 scan confirmed U0679 code.
Solution: Cleaned connectors and applied dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion.
Cost: $150
Result: Customer reported full functionality restored; no further issues after one month.
Case Study 2: Ford F-150 BCM Replacement
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 50,000 miles
Problem: Check engine light on, intermittent door lock failure.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan revealed U0679. Further testing indicated a faulty BCM.
Solution: Replaced the BCM and reprogrammed it to the vehicle.
Cost: $600
Result: All systems operational post-repair; customer satisfied with quick resolution.