AutoCodes – Generic – U0013

U0013 Code - Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low

Quick Answer

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Common causes include Diagnosis of this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is accomplished via the vehicle symptom(s), Check for more codes, Faulty Control Module. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: U0013 indicates Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Diagnosis of this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is accomplished via the vehicle symptom(s), Check for more codes, Faulty Control Module.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 5,725

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 29, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0013 Description

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the devices. The devices have programmed information about what messages are needed to be exchanged on the serial data circuits. CAN bus uses two dedicated wires for communication. The wires are called CAN high and CAN low. When the CAN bus is in idle mode, both lines carry 2.5V. When data bits are being transmitted, the CAN high line goes to 3.75V, and the CAN low drops to 1.25V, thereby generating a 2.5V differential between the lines. Since communication relies on a voltage differential between the two bus lines, the CAN bus is NOT sensitive to inductive spikes, electrical fields, or other noise. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when a supervised periodic message that includes the transmitter device availability has not been received.

OBDII Code U0013 - Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low - AutoCodes.com — U0013 Code - Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0013?

Diagnosis of this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is accomplished via the vehicle symptom(s)
Check for more codes
Faulty Control Module
Control Module harness is open or shorted
Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0013?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the U0013 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the U0013 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0013 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0013 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U0013 Ford — Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low
U0013 Lincoln — Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low
U0013 Mercury — Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about U0013 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0013 (Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (+) Low)?

- Common symptoms include intermittent or complete loss of communication with various control modules, dashboard warning lights, and issues with vehicle systems such as transmission, ABS, or traction control.

2. What can cause the OBDII code U0013 to trigger?

- The code U0013 can be triggered by issues such as wiring harness faults, loose or corroded connections in the CAN bus system, faulty control modules, or a malfunctioning CAN bus network.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code U0013?

- Diagnosing the U0013 code involves using a scan tool to check for other related codes, inspecting the CAN bus wiring and connections, performing resistance tests, and checking the voltage levels in the affected circuit.

4. What are some repair tips for resolving the U0013 trouble code?

- Repair tips for U0013 may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, ensuring secure connections in the CAN bus system, updating control module software, and conducting a thorough inspection of the affected components.

5. Can I drive my vehicle with the U0013 fault code?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the U0013 code present, as it can lead to potential safety hazards and further damage to the vehicle's systems. It is advisable to address the issue promptly.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair the U0013 code?

- The cost of repairing the U0013 code can vary depending on the underlying cause, the extent of the repairs needed, and labor rates in your area. It is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

7. Will resetting the trouble codes make the U0013 code disappear?

- Resetting the trouble codes may temporarily clear the U0013 code, but it will likely reappear if the underlying issue is not addressed. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem to prevent recurrence.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the U0013 code at home?

- While some basic diagnostics and repairs can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and fixing the U0013 code may require specialized tools and expertise. It is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.

9. Is the U0013 code specific to a certain make or model of vehicle?

- The U0013 trouble code is a generic OBDII code related to communication bus issues and can be found in various vehicle makes and models equipped with CAN bus systems.

10. How long does it take to repair the U0013 fault?

- The repair time for the U0013 fault can vary depending on the complexity of the issue, availability of parts, and the mechanic's experience. In some cases, the repair can be completed within a few hours, while more extensive repairs may take longer.