Quick Answer
U0981 means: U0981 indicates a communication error between vehicle control modules.
Can I drive with U0981? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid further system failures.
Common Questions
What does U0981 mean and how does it affect my car?
U0981 indicates a communication failure between modules, which can lead to poor vehicle performance, erratic electrical behavior, and potentially more significant issues if not addressed promptly.
What are the most common causes of U0981 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include wiring issues (40% likelihood) and BCM failures (30% likelihood), with repair costs typically ranging from $100 for wiring repairs to $600 for BCM replacement.
Can I drive my car with U0981 or should I stop immediately?
While you may still be able to drive, it is advisable to stop and address the issue as ignoring it can lead to more severe problems and safety hazards.
How can I diagnose U0981 myself using GeekOBD APP?
You can use the GeekOBD APP to scan for DTCs, check freeze frame data, and monitor specific module communications to identify potential problems.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0981?
Vehicles like the 2015-2018 Honda Civic, Ford F-150 from 2016-2019, and Chevrolet Malibu 2016-2018 often experience this code due to their complex electrical systems.
How can I prevent U0981 from happening again?
Regular maintenance checks, keeping wiring clean and secure, and ensuring software updates are performed can help prevent future occurrences of U0981.
What is U0981?
The U0981 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a communication error between modules in your vehicle, specifically related to the vehicle's network. Essentially, this means that one of the control modules, which are the small computers that manage various systems (like the engine, transmission, or brakes), is unable to communicate properly with another module. For instance, in many 2015-2018 Honda Civics, this can occur due to a malfunctioning Body Control Module (BCM) or a failure in the communication network itself. When this code is triggered, you may experience a variety of issues, including erratic behavior of electrical components, warning lights illuminating on your dashboard, or even complete system failures in some cases. The underlying causes can range from simple wiring issues to more complex module failures. Ignoring this code can lead to further damage and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, understanding what U0981 means and how to address it is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's health and performance.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0981 is present:
- The check engine light may stay on constantly, indicating a persistent issue.
- You may notice the engine hesitating during acceleration, which can affect driving performance.
- Fuel economy could decrease significantly, potentially by 10-15%, as the vehicle struggles to operate efficiently.
- Electrical components like power windows or lights might operate erratically or not at all.
- Dashboard warning lights may illuminate unexpectedly, indicating various system malfunctions.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0981 (ordered by frequency):
- A common cause of U0981 is a wiring issue or corrosion at the connectors, with a likelihood of about 40%. This can disrupt the signals sent between modules.
- Another frequent cause is a malfunctioning Body Control Module (BCM), which may fail due to internal faults or software issues, accounting for around 30% of cases.
- Prevention of wiring damage can be achieved through regular inspections and ensuring that connections are clean and secure.
- Less common but serious causes may include a faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) that fails to communicate properly, requiring replacement.
- A rare cause could be software glitches that may need a firmware update to resolve communication issues.
U0981 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wires or connections that may be causing communication issues.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
BCM Replacement
Replacing a malfunctioning Body Control Module with a new unit.
- Total: $300 - $600
- Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for U0981
- 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 U0981 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0981. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Begin with an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors for any visible damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Begin with an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors for any visible damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all DTCs and freeze frame data to gain context on the fault (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all DTCs and freeze frame data to gain context on the fault (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Conduct component testing, using a multimeter to check the voltage and continuity of suspected faulty components (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Conduct component testing, using a multimeter to check the voltage and continuity of suspected faulty components (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: After repairs, perform a system function test to verify the proper operation of all systems and clear the codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: After repairs, perform a system function test to verify the proper operation of all systems and clear the codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Conduct a road test under various driving conditions to ensure the issue is resolved and no new codes appear (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Conduct a road test under various driving conditions to ensure the issue is resolved and no new codes appear (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: Honda Civic U0981 Communication Issue
Vehicle: 2017 Honda Civic, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported intermittent power window failures and dashboard warning lights.
Diagnosis: Initial inspection showed corroded connectors at the BCM, confirmed by GeekOBD scan showing U0981.
Solution: Replaced corroded connectors and cleaned wiring harness.
Cost: $150 (including labor and parts)
Result: All systems returned to normal operation with no further issues.
Case Study 2: Ford F-150 BCM Replacement
Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150, 30,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced multiple electrical issues and check engine light illumination.
Diagnosis: GeekOBD scan revealed U0981; BCM testing indicated internal failure.
Solution: Replaced the Body Control Module with a new unit.
Cost: $500 (specific cost breakdown included labor and parts)
Result: Resolved all electrical issues and improved vehicle performance.