AutoCodes – Buick – U0208 Buick

U0208 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Seat Memory 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 Seat Memory Control Module, Seat Memory Control Module harness is open or shorted, Seat Memory 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: U0208 Buick indicates Lost Communication With Seat Memory Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Seat Memory Control Module, Seat Memory Control Module harness is open or shorted, Seat Memory 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 696

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 03, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0208 Buick 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 Seat Memory Control Module has not been received.

OBDII Code U0208 Buick - Lost Communication With Seat Memory Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U0208 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Seat Memory Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0208 Buick?

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

How to Fix the DTC U0208 Buick?

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 U0208 Buick 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 U0208 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code U0208 mean on a Buick?

U0208 indicates lost communication with the Seat Memory Control Module (SMCM), meaning the module is not sending or receiving data on the vehicleâ€™s communication network.

2. What are the common symptoms of the U0208 code?

Symptoms may include non-functional seat memory settings, inability to adjust seat positions via memory presets, or a warning light on the dashboard.

3. What causes the U0208 code on a Buick?

Potential causes include a faulty Seat Memory Control Module, damaged wiring or connectors, issues with the CAN bus network, or a blown fuse.

4. Can I still drive my Buick with the U0208 code?

Yes, you can still drive the vehicle, but seat memory features may not work properly, and it could indicate a deeper communication issue in the vehicle.

5. How do I diagnose the U0208 code?

Start by checking the wiring and connectors leading to the Seat Memory Control Module for damage or corrosion. Verify the module has power and ground, and use a scan tool to check for communication on the CAN bus system.

6. Is the Seat Memory Control Module the only possible issue with the U0208 code?

No, the issue could also stem from wiring problems, a network communication fault, or a problem with other modules on the CAN bus system.

7. How is the U0208 code fixed on a Buick?

Repairs may include replacing the Seat Memory Control Module, repairing or replacing damaged wiring/connectors, clearing the code with a scan tool, or reprogramming the module if necessary.

8. Do I need to reprogram the Seat Memory Control Module after replacing it?

Yes, in most cases, the new module will need to be programmed to the vehicle using a compatible scan tool to ensure proper operation.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the U0208 code?

A professional scan tool capable of reading CAN bus communication, a multimeter for testing wiring, and possibly a wiring diagram for the Seat Memory Control Module.

10. Can a dead battery cause the U0208 code on a Buick?

Yes, a dead or weak battery can disrupt communication between modules and trigger the U0208 code. Ensure the battery and charging system are functioning properly.