Quick Answer
U0E73 means: U0E73 indicates a communication issue between vehicle control modules, particularly in Ford vehicles.
Can I drive with U0E73? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further electrical issues.
Common Questions
What does U0E73 mean and how does it affect my car?
U0E73 indicates a communication fault within your vehicle's control systems. This can lead to various malfunctions in systems like lighting and power features, which can affect vehicle performance and safety.
What are the most common causes of U0E73 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include damaged wiring, a faulty BCM, or poor battery connections, with repair costs ranging from $100 for wiring issues to $700 for BCM replacement.
Can I drive my car with U0E73 or should I stop immediately?
While you may be able to drive the car, it is not advisable to ignore the code as it can lead to further electrical issues or safety concerns.
How can I diagnose U0E73 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose U0E73, use the GeekOBD APP to run a complete scan of your vehicle, check for any additional codes, and examine freeze frame data for insights into the fault.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by U0E73?
The U0E73 code is frequently reported in 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and Ford Explorer models. Owners should check for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to this code.
How can I prevent U0E73 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking electrical connections and ensuring battery terminals are clean, can help prevent the recurrence of U0E73.
What is U0E73?
DTC U0E73 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a problem with the communication between the vehicle's control modules, particularly within the Body Control Module (BCM). This code often arises in Ford models, including the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 and Ford Explorer. When this code is triggered, it suggests that there is a disruption in the data flow between the various electronic control units (ECUs). This can lead to a variety of symptoms, impacting the functionality of important systems such as lighting, power windows, and security features. The implications of U0E73 can vary from minor inconveniences, like a flickering dashboard light, to more severe issues that could compromise safety, such as failure of the vehicle’s locking system. It's crucial to address this code promptly to avoid further complications. If left unresolved, the ongoing communication failure can lead to additional diagnostic trouble codes and increased repair costs down the line. Moreover, understanding this code can help vehicle owners maintain their car's performance and safety, making it an important aspect of automotive diagnostics.
System: U - Network (Communication, CAN Bus)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when U0E73 is present:
- The check engine light illuminates, remaining on until the issue is resolved.
- Power windows may malfunction intermittently, affecting ease of use.
- Interior lights may flicker or fail to operate correctly, indicating electrical instability.
- The vehicle's locking system may become unreliable, impacting security.
- Unusual behavior in dashboard indicators, such as warning lights appearing erratically.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of U0E73 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of U0E73 is damaged wiring or connectors, which occurs in about 60% of cases, often due to wear and tear or exposure to moisture.
- A second common cause is a malfunctioning Body Control Module (BCM), which can fail due to software issues or internal damage, accounting for roughly 25% of occurrences.
- Thirdly, poor battery connections can lead to communication failures, so keeping the battery terminals clean and tight can help prevent this issue. Regular maintenance is key.
- Less common but serious causes include a failing engine control module (ECM), which can lead to widespread electrical issues and should be diagnosed by a professional.
- In rare cases, a factory recall issue can be the cause, especially in older models. Owners should check with their dealership for any outstanding recalls.
U0E73 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring and Connector Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wires and connectors can resolve the communication issues.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
BCM Replacement
Replacing a faulty Body Control Module if determined to be defective.
- Total: $400 - $700
- Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for U0E73
- 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 U0E73 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose U0E73. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Look for damaged wiring, loose connections, and corrosion around the BCM and associated connectors (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Look for damaged wiring, loose connections, and corrosion around the BCM and associated connectors (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan using the GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the context of the fault (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan using the GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the context of the fault (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the BCM and its associated circuits for continuity (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the BCM and its associated circuits for continuity (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the operation of all affected systems and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the operation of all affected systems and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under different conditions to ensure the problem is resolved and no new codes appear (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under different conditions to ensure the problem 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: 2017 Ford F-150 U0E73 Repair
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported flickering dashboard lights and intermittent power window failure.
Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, U0E73 was identified. A visual inspection revealed corroded connectors.
Solution: Replaced damaged connectors and cleaned wiring harness.
Cost: $200 for parts and labor.
Result: All systems returned to normal functionality, and no further codes appeared.
Case Study 2: 2019 Ford Explorer BCM Replacement
Vehicle: 2019 Ford Explorer, 30,000 miles
Problem: Check engine light on and issues with the locking system.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan confirmed U0E73. Further testing indicated the BCM was malfunctioning.
Solution: Replaced the Body Control Module.
Cost: $650 including parts and installation.
Result: Vehicle systems functioned correctly post-repair.