Quick Answer
U0985 means: U0985 indicates a communication error between vehicle control modules.
Can I drive with U0985? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further issues.
Common Questions
What does U0985 mean and how does it affect my car?
The U0985 code signifies a communication error between your vehicle's control modules. This can lead to symptoms ranging from warning lights on your dashboard to performance issues like engine hesitations. In the long run, if left unchecked, it could affect the overall functionality of your vehicle, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
What are the most common causes of U0985 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include damaged wiring (60% likelihood) and malfunctioning control modules (25% likelihood). Repair costs can vary widely, from $100 for simple wiring repairs to over $1,200 for control module replacements, depending on the severity of the issue.
Can I drive my car with U0985 or should I stop immediately?
It's not advisable to continue driving if you have a U0985 code, as it may lead to more severe issues, such as loss of power steering or braking. It’s best to have the vehicle diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to ensure your safety.
How can I diagnose U0985 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose the U0985 code using the GeekOBD APP, connect the device to your vehicle's OBD2 port, and run a scan. Review the codes and freeze frame data to identify specific issues. Look for any other related codes and check the status of your control modules through the app.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0985?
Models like the Ford F-150 from 2015 to 2020 frequently experience the U0985 code. Other Ford vehicles during this time may also be affected, leading to various recalls or technical service bulletins addressing this issue.
How can I prevent U0985 from happening again?
To prevent the U0985 code from recurring, regularly check your vehicle's electrical connections, ensure good battery health, and keep the vehicle's software updated. Regular maintenance, including inspections of the wiring and connectors, can also help.
What is U0985?
DTC U0985 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a communication error between modules in your vehicle's network, specifically related to the vehicle's control modules. When this code appears, it usually signifies that the Engine Control Module (ECM) or another control module is unable to communicate effectively with other modules, such as the Transmission Control Module (TCM) or Body Control Module (BCM). This communication breakdown can lead to a variety of issues, including performance problems, warning lights in your dashboard, or even failure to start. A prevalent issue in vehicles like the Ford F-150 from 2015-2020, U0985 can also affect other models within the same year range. If left unaddressed, this could lead to more significant problems, as the various systems in your vehicle rely on seamless communication to function properly. It's important to note that the severity of this code can vary. In some cases, it may cause minor inconveniences, while in others, it could lead to serious safety concerns, such as loss of power steering or braking assistance. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and repair are crucial to ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0985 is present:
- Check engine light illuminates and remains on, indicating a potential communication failure.
- Vehicle experiences intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning dashboard lights or power accessories.
- Engine may hesitate or stall unexpectedly, affecting overall performance.
- Transmission may shift erratically or fail to engage properly, leading to potential safety hazards.
- Fuel efficiency may decline noticeably, with an increase of 10-15% in fuel consumption.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0985 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of U0985 is damaged wiring or loose connections between control modules, with a likelihood of around 60%. This can occur due to wear and tear or corrosion over time.
- Another prevalent cause is a malfunctioning control module itself, which may be due to software issues or physical damage. This accounts for about 25% of cases.
- A third cause could be a weak battery or poor electrical ground, which can lead to insufficient voltage for communication. Regular battery checks can help prevent this issue.
- Less common but serious causes include water intrusion or corrosion within the control module housing, which can happen in vehicles exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- A rare but possible cause is a factory recall or technical service bulletin (TSB) related to software issues affecting the communication protocols.
U0985 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Control Module Replacement
Replace faulty control modules that are causing the communication errors.
- Total: $500 - $1,200
- Success rate: 90%
Software Update
Update the software in affected control modules to resolve communication issues.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for U0985
- 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 U0985 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0985. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors for signs of damage or corrosion
Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors for signs of damage or corrosion. This should take about 5-10 minutes.
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan and retrieve all diagnostic codes along with freeze frame data
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan and retrieve all diagnostic codes along with freeze frame data. This will provide context for the fault, taking roughly 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Step 3: Test the suspected components using a multimeter or a specialized automotive diagnostic tool
Step 3: Test the suspected components using a multimeter or a specialized automotive diagnostic tool. This can take 20-30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the systems involved.
Step 4: Step 4: Conduct a system function test to verify proper operation after repairs and clear the codes, which should take about 10-15 minutes
Step 4: Conduct a system function test to verify proper operation after repairs and clear the codes, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Step 5: Perform a road test to validate the repair under various driving conditions, allowing around 15-20 minutes for this step
Step 5: Perform a road test to validate the repair under various driving conditions, allowing around 15-20 minutes for this step.
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: Ford F-150 Communication Failure Repair
Vehicle: 2016 Ford F-150, 50,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported intermittent check engine light and erratic electrical behavior.
Diagnosis: Initial visual inspection revealed damaged wiring harness due to wear. OBD2 scan confirmed U0985 code.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and replaced a faulty connector.
Cost: $250 (parts: $50, labor: $200)
Result: After the repair, the check engine light remained off, and the vehicle operated normally.
Case Study 2: Control Module Replacement on 2018 Ford Explorer
Vehicle: 2018 Ford Explorer, 30,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced engine stalling and a persistent check engine light.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan indicated U0985 code; further tests revealed a malfunctioning control module.
Solution: Replaced the faulty control module and updated the software.
Cost: $950 (parts: $800, labor: $150)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle ran smoothly without any further issues.