U0837 - Lost Communication with Vehicle Control Module - Common in 2015-2018 Chevrolet and GMC Models

Quick Answer

U0837 means: U0837 indicates a communication failure between the vehicle control module and other components.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $500 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with U0837? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid further electrical problems.

Common Questions

What does U0837 mean and how does it affect my car?

The U0837 code indicates that your car's control module is not communicating properly with other modules, which can lead to failures in various electronic systems. This can affect your vehicle's comfort features and safety systems, making it important to diagnose and repair the issue promptly.

What are the most common causes of U0837 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include faulty wiring, a failing body control module, or corrosion at connector terminals. Repair costs can range from $150 to $800 depending on the specific issue and required repairs.

Can I drive my car with U0837 or should I stop immediately?

While you may be able to drive your car, it's not advisable to ignore the U0837 code. Continuing to drive could lead to further electrical issues and potential safety risks, so it's best to address the problem as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose U0837 myself using GeekOBD APP?

With the GeekOBD APP, you can perform a complete diagnostic scan of your vehicle, retrieve the U0837 code along with others, and access freeze frame data to understand the conditions under which the code was triggered. This information is crucial for pinpointing the issue.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0837?

The U0837 code is frequently reported in 2015-2018 Chevrolet and GMC models, including the Silverado and Sierra. Keeping an eye on recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for these vehicles can help in preventive maintenance.

How can I prevent U0837 from happening again?

Regular maintenance of your vehicle's electrical system, including checking wiring and connectors for damage and corrosion, can help prevent U0837. Additionally, ensuring that your vehicle's software is up to date can mitigate potential issues.

What is U0837?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0837 indicates that there is a communication failure between the vehicle's control module and one of its components, typically the body control module (BCM) or another essential electronic control unit (ECU). This code is often triggered in vehicles like the 2015-2018 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra where advanced electronic systems are prevalent. When the U0837 code is triggered, it means that the vehicle's onboard computer is not receiving data from a specific module, leading to potential issues with various electrical systems, such as the power windows, door locks, or dashboard indicators. In practical terms, this could manifest as intermittent or complete failure of these systems, making your driving experience less comfortable and possibly compromising safety features. It's crucial to address this issue promptly, as ignoring it can lead to further complications, including more extensive electrical failures or even total loss of functionality in affected systems. If you experience this code, bringing your vehicle to a qualified technician for diagnosis and repair is highly recommended, as the issue can stem from something as simple as a loose connection or as complex as a failing control module.

System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when U0837 is present:

  • The check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue that needs attention.
  • Power windows or door locks may not function correctly, leading to inconvenience and security concerns.
  • Dashboard warning lights may flicker or stay illuminated, causing confusion while driving.
  • Intermittent failures of cruise control or other electronic systems can occur, affecting driving comfort.
  • Decreased fuel efficiency may be noticed, as the vehicle struggles to communicate with various systems.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of U0837 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of U0837 is a faulty or disconnected wiring harness, which is responsible for communication between modules. This issue occurs in about 60% of cases, often due to wear and tear or damage from road conditions.
  2. A failing body control module (BCM) can also trigger this code, especially in models with extensive electronic features. The BCM is responsible for controlling many functions, and its failure can lead to multiple electrical issues.
  3. Corrosion at connector pins or terminals is another frequent cause, leading to poor electrical connections that disrupt communication. Regular checks and maintenance can help prevent this.
  4. Less commonly, software glitches in the vehicle’s firmware might cause U0837. In such cases, a reprogramming or update of the affected module is necessary.
  5. Rarely, issues related to the vehicle's main power supply, such as a failing battery or alternator, can result in communication errors and lead to this code.

U0837 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Harness Repair

Repair or replacement of damaged wiring and connectors.

  • Total: $150 - $500
  • Success rate: 85%
Body Control Module Replacement

Replacing the faulty BCM if it is determined to be the cause of the issue.

  • Total: $300 - $800
  • Success rate: 90%
Software Update

Updating the vehicle's firmware to resolve software glitches.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for U0837
  • 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 U0837 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0837. 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: Chevrolet Silverado 2016 U0837 Repair

Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Silverado, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported that the power windows and door locks were intermittently failing.

Diagnosis: After scanning with GeekOBD APP, U0837 was confirmed along with other codes. A visual inspection revealed a damaged wiring harness.

Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and ensured connections were secure. Cleared the codes and tested functionality.

Cost: $250 (parts and labor breakdown included wiring repair and diagnostic time)

Result: All systems functioned normally post-repair, and the customer reported no further issues.

Case Study 2: GMC Sierra 2017 Body Control Module Replacement

Vehicle: 2017 GMC Sierra, 30,000 miles

Problem: Vehicle experienced multiple electrical failures, including inoperable dashboard lights and cruise control.

Diagnosis: U0837 was flagged. Further diagnostics revealed a malfunctioning body control module.

Solution: Replaced the body control module and reprogrammed it to the vehicle’s systems.

Cost: $750 (cost included the new BCM and programming services)

Result: Post-repair, all electronic functions were restored, and the vehicle operated smoothly.

Diagnose U0837

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: U0837
System: Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Network Codes