Lost Communication With Vehicle Immobilizer Control Module
The U0168 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Lost Communication With Vehicle Immobilizer Control Module. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No -- stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $200 - $800 (parts and labor)
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
- Vehicle will not start
- Security or immobilizer warning light on
- Key not recognized
- Anti-theft system activated
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed immobilizer module Very High
- CAN bus wiring fault to immobilizer module High
- Key transponder failure Moderate
- Immobilizer antenna ring failure Moderate
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Check immobilizer module power and ground
-
Verify key transponder is being read by holding key near antenna ring
-
Inspect CAN bus wiring to immobilizer module
-
Try a spare key to rule out key transponder failure
-
Replace immobilizer module and reprogram keys if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code U0168?
Do not drive. Lost communication codes indicate a module has stopped communicating on the vehicle network. The affected system is completely inoperative.
What causes U0168?
The most common cause is a failed module or a wiring issue in the CAN bus network. Failed immobilizer module is the most likely cause. Power supply, ground, and connector issues should be checked before replacing any module.
Is U0168 expensive to fix?
Repair costs range from $200 - $800 (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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