AutoCodes – Ford – U0238 Ford

U0238 Ford 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 Ford 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 5,513

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 05, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0238 Ford 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 Ford - Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D' - AutoCodes.com — U0238 Ford Code - Lost Communication With Digital Audio Control Module 'D'

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0238 Ford?

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 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 U0238 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.

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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 U0238 Ford Code

1. What are common symptoms of the OBDII code U0238 in a Ford related to the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'?

- Common symptoms include loss of sound from the audio system, malfunctioning controls on the audio system, and the audio system not functioning at all.

2. What are some possible causes of the U0238 code indicating a lost communication with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D' in a Ford?

- Possible causes can include a faulty digital audio control module, damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse related to the audio system, or issues with the vehicle's network communication system.

3. How can I diagnose the U0238 code in a Ford that points to a communication problem with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'?

- Diagnosis typically involves checking the wiring and connectors related to the audio system, inspecting the digital audio control module for damage, and using a diagnostic scanner to communicate with the module for further troubleshooting.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Ford with the U0238 code triggered due to a lost communication with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'?

- It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with this code, but it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent any potential long-term audio system problems or issues with other vehicle systems.

5. How can I repair the U0238 code in my Ford caused by a communication failure with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'?

- Repair options may include replacing the digital audio control module if it is found to be faulty, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, checking and replacing any blown fuses, and ensuring proper communication within the vehicle's network system.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the U0238 code related to the Digital Audio Control Module 'D' in a Ford?

- While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by a DIY enthusiast, resolving the U0238 code may require advanced diagnostic tools and specific technical knowledge, so it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.

7. Are there any recalls or service bulletins related to the U0238 code in Ford vehicles with issues concerning the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'?

- It is advisable to check with Ford dealerships or online resources for any relevant recalls or service bulletins addressing the U0238 code and communication problems with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D' to see if there are any known solutions provided by the manufacturer.

8. How much can I expect to pay for repairing the U0238 code in a Ford due to a lost communication with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 or more for parts and labor to address the U0238 code related to the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'.

9. Will resetting the OBDII system clear the U0238 code indicating a lost communication with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D' in a Ford?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but it is essential to diagnose and address the underlying issue causing the lost communication with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D' to prevent the code from reoccurring.

10. How long does it typically take to repair the U0238 code in a Ford caused by a communication problem with the Digital Audio Control Module 'D'?

- The repair time can vary based on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair process, but you can generally expect the repair to take a few hours to a full day to complete, depending on the technician's expertise and availability of parts.