Lost Communication With Power Steering Control Module
The U0131 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Lost Communication With Power Steering Control Module. This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $200 - $1500 (parts and labor)
Common Misconceptions / Fact Check
-
Commonly claimedU0131 means the power steering control module is bad.
VerifiedAn internal module failure is the least common cause. U0131 means the steering module stopped reporting on the network -- usually from loss of power/ground or a CAN wiring/connector fault. Diagnose those first before replacing the module.
Network codes mean modules are not communicating. You need a scanner that reads all systems to find the problem.
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Common Symptoms
- Power steering warning light on
- Heavy steering effort at low speeds
- Electric power steering inoperative
- Check Engine Light may be on
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- EPS module power supply or ground loss (blown fuse, poor ground) Very High
- CAN bus wiring fault to EPS module (open/short) High
- EPS module connector corrosion or loose pins Moderate
- Failed electric power steering module Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Check EPS module power and ground circuits
-
Inspect EPS module connector for corrosion
-
Verify CAN bus wiring to EPS module
-
Check steering column and rack connections
-
Replace EPS module if communication lost -- may require calibration
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing U0131 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2007-2018 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra easy DIY
Lost communication with power steering control module. On electric power steering (EPS) equipped trucks, the EPS module is on the steering column. This code is commonly triggered by low battery voltage. Charge/replace the battery and clear the code. If it returns with a good battery, check the EPS module connector on the steering column for looseness -- vibration can back the connector out.
Labor: 15-30 min2008-2020 Ford F-150/Explorer hard DIY
Ford EPAS (Electric Power Assist Steering) communication faults are commonly caused by the EPAS module overheating. The module is mounted on the steering column and is surrounded by heat from the engine bay. In hot weather or heavy-use conditions, the module shuts down temporarily. If U0131 sets during hot weather and clears after cooling, the EPAS module needs replacement. Ford TSB 14-0193 covers this.
Labor: 1-3 hours2008-2019 Chevrolet Equinox/Malibu/Cruze hard DIY
GM sedans and small SUVs with EPS have a known issue with the torque sensor inside the steering column failing. U0131 will set along with a 'Power Steering' warning message. The torque sensor is part of the steering column assembly. GM extended the warranty to 10 years/150K miles on some 2013-2015 models via Special Coverage 14311. Check with your dealer for coverage before paying out of pocket.
Labor: 2-4 hoursFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code U0131?
Drive short distances only. Lost communication codes indicate a module has stopped communicating on the vehicle network. The affected system may not function correctly.
What causes U0131?
The most common causes are loss of power/ground to the module and CAN bus wiring or connector faults -- check those first. An internal EPS module failure is the least common cause, so replace the module only after the power, ground, and wiring checks pass.
Is U0131 expensive to fix?
Repair costs range from $200 - $1500 (parts and labor). Wiring repairs are on the lower end, while module replacement is on the higher end. The module may also need to be programmed after replacement.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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