AutoCodes – Chevrolet – U0197 Chevrolet

U0197 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the high speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Telephone Control Module, Telephone Control Module harness is open or shorted, Telephone Control Module circuit poor electrical connection. 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: U0197 Chevrolet indicates Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Telephone Control Module, Telephone Control Module harness is open or shorted, Telephone Control Module circuit poor electrical connection.
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 1,601

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 Apr 02, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0197 Chevrolet Description

Modules connected to the high speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the modules. The modules have prerecorded information about what messages are needed to be exchanged on the serial data circuits, for each virtual network. The messages are supervised and also, some periodic messages are used by the receiver module as an availability indication of the transmitter module. The supervision time-out period is 250 ms. Each message contains the identification number of the transmitter module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when a periodic message from the Telephone Control Module has not been received.

OBDII Code U0197 Chevrolet - Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U0197 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0197 Chevrolet?

Faulty Telephone Control Module
Telephone Control Module harness is open or shorted
Telephone Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0197 Chevrolet?

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 U0197 Chevrolet 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.

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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 U0197 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0197 in a Chevrolet related to the Telephone Control Module?

- Common symptoms include loss of connectivity with the phone system, issues with hands-free calling, and potential problems with other vehicle communication systems.

2. What are some possible causes of the U0197 trouble code in a Chevrolet?

- Causes may include a faulty telephone control module, damaged wiring or connectors, software issues, or a weak battery.

3. How can I diagnose the U0197 code in my Chevrolet?

- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, inspecting the telephone control module and related wiring, and checking for any other communication system faults.

4. Can I still drive my Chevrolet with the U0197 trouble code present?

- It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with this code, but it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent any potential communication system failures.

5. Is it possible to reset the U0197 code in a Chevrolet without fixing the underlying issue?

- While clearing the code can temporarily turn off the check engine light, the root cause should be identified and repaired to prevent the code from reoccurring.

6. Are there any simple repairs I can try to fix the U0197 code in my Chevrolet?

- Basic steps like checking and securing wiring connections, ensuring the telephone control module is properly seated, and performing a battery reset may resolve the issue in some cases.

7. Will replacing the telephone control module fix the U0197 code in my Chevrolet?

- Replacing the telephone control module is a common repair for this code and can often resolve communication issues with the telephone system.

8. Can a low battery cause the U0197 trouble code in a Chevrolet?

- Yes, a weak or failing battery can impact the communication systems in the vehicle and potentially trigger the U0197 code.

9. How long does it typically take to repair the U0197 code in a Chevrolet?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the code, but simple fixes like reconnecting wiring may take a short time, while module replacements could require more extensive work.

10. Should I seek professional help to diagnose and repair the U0197 trouble code in my Chevrolet?

- If you are not experienced with automotive diagnostics or repairs, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic or dealership to accurately diagnose and fix the issue related to the U0197 code.