AutoCodes – Ford – U0018 Ford

U0018 Ford Code - Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (-) Shorted To Bus (+)

Quick Answer

Multiplexing is a method of sending 2 or more signals simultaneously over a single circuit. 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
U0018 Ford indicates Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (-) Shorted To Bus (+).
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 2,471
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 29, 2020
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Code U0018 Ford Description

Multiplexing is a method of sending 2 or more signals simultaneously over a single circuit. Multiplexing allows 2 or more electronic modules (nodes) to communicate over a twisted wire pair [data (+) and data (-)] network. The information or messages that can be communicated on these wires consists of commands, status or data. Multiplexing reduces the weight of the vehicle by reducing the number of redundant components and electrical wiring. The vehicle has 4 module communication networks connected to the DLC, located under the instrument panel. The communication networks are: HEV High Speed Controller Area Network (HS-CAN), High Speed Controller Area Network (HS-CAN), Medium Speed Controller Area Network (MS-CAN) and Infotainment Controller Area Network (I-CAN). The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U0018 sets when a Medium Speed Controller Area Network (MS-CAN) fault was present at a point in time. The fault is not currently present since the module is communicating with the scan tool.
OBDII Code U0018 Ford - Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (-) Shorted To Bus (+) - AutoCodes.com
U0018 Ford Code - Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (-) Shorted To Bus (+)

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0018 Ford?

  • 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 U0018 Ford?

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 U0018 Ford 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 U0018 Ford code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0018 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0018 Ford code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 U0018 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0018 in a Ford vehicle?

The common symptoms include issues with the vehicle's communication systems, such as difficulty starting the car, loss of power steering, and dashboard warning lights staying illuminated.

2. What are the possible causes of the Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (-) Shorted To Bus (+) error code in a Ford?

The error code U0018 in a Ford is typically caused by damaged wiring harnesses, faulty connectors, or a short circuit in the Medium Speed CAN communication network.

3. How can I diagnose the U0018 code in my Ford vehicle?

To diagnose the U0018 code, a mechanic would use a diagnostic scanner to read the trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer system and perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors in the Medium Speed CAN communication network.

4. Can I drive my Ford with the U0018 error code present?

It is not recommended to drive your Ford vehicle with the U0018 error code present, as it can lead to further damage to the vehicle's electrical system and potentially cause safety issues while driving.

5. How is the Medium Speed CAN Communication Bus (-) Shorted To Bus (+) issue typically repaired in a Ford?

The repair process usually involves identifying and repairing the short circuit in the Medium Speed CAN communication network, replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the error codes from the vehicle's computer system.

6. Are there any DIY tips for addressing the U0018 error code in a Ford?

DIY tips for addressing the U0018 code include checking for visible signs of damage to wiring and connectors, ensuring all connections are secure, and using a multimeter to test for continuity and shorts in the communication bus.

7. Will resetting the error codes clear the U0018 code in my Ford?

Resetting the error codes may temporarily clear the U0018 code, but if the underlying issue causing the error code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear once the vehicle is driven again.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the U0018 code in a Ford at a dealership or repair shop?

The cost of repairing the U0018 code can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific repairs needed, but it can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars at a dealership or repair shop.

9. Can the U0018 error code in a Ford be prevented?

Regular maintenance and inspections of the vehicle's electrical system, including checking wiring harnesses and connectors, can help prevent issues like the U0018 error code from occurring in a Ford vehicle.

10. Is the U0018 error code specific to Ford vehicles, or can it occur in other makes and models?

The U0018 error code is specific to Ford vehicles and relates to issues with the Medium Speed CAN communication network in Ford cars and trucks.

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