AutoCodes – Generic – U0238

U0238 Code - Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D'

Quick Answer

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Common causes include Faulty Digital Audio Control Module 'D', Digital Audio Control Module 'D' harness is open or shorted, Digital Audio Control Module 'D' 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: U0238 indicates Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D'.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Digital Audio Control Module 'D', Digital Audio Control Module 'D' harness is open or shorted, Digital Audio Control Module 'D' 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 6,976

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 04, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0238 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 periodic message from the Digital Audio Control Module 'D' has not been received.

OBDII Code U0238 - Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D' - AutoCodes.com — U0238 Code - Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D'

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0238?

Faulty Digital Audio Control Module 'D'
Digital Audio Control Module 'D' harness is open or shorted
Digital Audio Control Module 'D' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0238?

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 U0238 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 U0238 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0238 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0238 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U0238 Ford — Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D'
U0238 Lincoln — Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D'
U0238 Mercury — Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D'

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 U0238 Code

What does the OBDII code U0238 mean?

The U0238 code indicates a loss of communication with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D', meaning the vehicle's network cannot communicate with this specific module.

What are the common symptoms of the U0238 code?

Common symptoms include a malfunctioning or unresponsive audio system, loss of digital audio features, and possible warning lights on the dashboard.

What causes the U0238 code to appear?

The code can be caused by wiring or connection issues, a faulty Digital Audio Control Module 'D', a failed CAN bus network, or a software glitch.

How do I diagnose the U0238 code?

Start by checking the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Then, use a scan tool to check for additional codes and test the module's communication within the network.

Can I still drive my car with the U0238 code?

Yes, the vehicle can usually still be driven, but the audio system may not function properly, which could affect convenience or entertainment features.

How do I fix the U0238 code?

Repairs may involve fixing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, reprogramming the module, or replacing the faulty Digital Audio Control Module 'D'.

Can a dead battery cause the U0238 code?

Yes, a low or dead battery can sometimes disrupt communication within the CAN bus network, triggering this code.

Do I need to replace the Digital Audio Control Module 'D' if I see the U0238 code?

Not necessarily. First, rule out wiring issues, software glitches, and other potential causes before replacing the module.

How much does it cost to repair the U0238 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. Wiring repairs may cost $50–$200, while replacing the module could cost $300–$800 or more, including labor.

Can a software update fix the U0238 code?

Yes, in some cases, a software update for the vehicle's control modules can resolve communication issues and clear the code.