Quick Answer
U0908 means: DTC U0908 indicates a communication failure between control modules in your vehicle's computer network.
Can I drive with U0908? It's recommended to address this issue immediately to prevent further damage or safety hazards.
Common Questions
What does U0908 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC U0908 signifies a communication breakdown between your vehicle’s control modules. This can lead to various performance issues, including erratic engine behavior and malfunctioning warning lights. It's important to address this issue as it can affect critical systems in your vehicle.
What are the most common causes of U0908 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common cause of U0908 is faulty wiring, which occurs in about 60% of cases. Repairing wiring can cost between $150 and $500. Other causes include a defective control module (costing $500 to $1200) and software issues. Each repair option comes with its own success rate and cost implications.
Can I drive my car with U0908 or should I stop immediately?
It is not advisable to drive your vehicle with DTC U0908 active. Ignoring this code can lead to serious safety issues, including loss of control over essential vehicle functions. It's best to schedule a diagnostic as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose U0908 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose U0908 using the GeekOBD APP, first connect the OBD2 scanner to your vehicle's port. Use the app to read diagnostic trouble codes and retrieve freeze frame data, which will help you understand the context of the issue. Look for patterns or accompanying codes that may indicate the specific module at fault.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0908?
DTC U0908 is commonly seen in 2015-2018 Ford F-150s and Chrysler Pacificas. If your vehicle falls within these models and years, it's wise to be vigilant about any symptoms related to this code.
How can I prevent U0908 from happening again?
To prevent DTC U0908, ensure regular inspections of the vehicle's wiring and connectors, especially if you have installed aftermarket electronic devices. Keeping up with software updates and following recommended maintenance schedules can also help mitigate future issues.
What is U0908?
DTC U0908 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a communication issue between control modules in your vehicle. Specifically, this code refers to a loss of communication with the vehicle's control module, often due to a malfunction in the CAN (Controller Area Network) communication line. In simpler terms, it means that the various electronic systems in your vehicle are not able to talk to each other properly. This can lead to performance issues, such as erratic engine behavior, malfunctioning dashboard lights, or even complete system shutdowns in severe cases. For many car owners, encountering this code can be alarming, as it often comes with symptoms like the check engine light being illuminated, reduced engine performance, or strange electrical behavior. Commonly found in vehicles like the 2015-2018 Ford F-150 and Chrysler Pacifica, this error code can arise from several issues, including faulty wiring, bad connectors, or even a defective control module. Addressing DTC U0908 promptly is crucial to avoid further complications and to ensure the safe operation of your vehicle. Ignoring this code can lead to more severe issues down the line, potentially affecting vital systems like braking and steering, which rely on effective communication between modules.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0908 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a communication issue that may affect vehicle performance.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, leading to a jerky driving experience and reduced responsiveness.
- Dashboard warning lights may flicker or malfunction, making it difficult to monitor vehicle conditions.
- Cruise control may become unresponsive, creating inconvenience during long drives.
- Unusual electrical behaviors, such as power windows or locks acting erratically, indicating broader electrical issues.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0908 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty wiring or poor connections within the CAN bus system (most common, 60% likelihood). This can be due to wear and tear, corrosion, or physical damage.
- Defective control module that fails to communicate with other modules (20% likelihood). This can occur from electrical shorts or manufacturing defects.
- Damaged connectors or pins that disrupt signals between modules (10% likelihood). Regular inspections can help identify this issue early.
- Less common but serious cause includes software malfunctions in the vehicle's control modules that may require reprogramming.
- Rare but possible cause is interference from aftermarket electronic devices that disrupt the normal communication flow.
U0908 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repair or replace damaged wiring in the CAN system.
- Total: $150 - $500
- Success rate: 85%
Control Module Replacement
Replacing a defective control module that fails to communicate.
- Total: $500 - $1200
- Success rate: 90%
Software Update
Reprogramming or updating the software in the control modules.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for U0908
- 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 U0908 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0908. 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 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).
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: Wiring Repair on 2017 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported intermittent check engine light and erratic engine performance.
Diagnosis: After a thorough inspection and OBD2 scan, DTC U0908 was identified due to damaged wiring in the CAN bus.
Solution: Replaced damaged wiring and secured loose connections.
Cost: $350 for parts and labor
Result: Check engine light cleared, and engine performance returned to normal.
Case Study 2: Control Module Replacement on 2016 Chrysler Pacifica
Vehicle: 2016 Chrysler Pacifica, 30,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced multiple dashboard warning lights and unresponsive cruise control.
Diagnosis: DTC U0908 was logged due to a faulty control module that failed to communicate with other systems.
Solution: Replaced the control module and reprogrammed it to factory settings.
Cost: $900 for parts and labor
Result: Vehicle functions restored, and warning lights cleared.