AutoCodes – Generic – U0301

U0301 Code - Software Incompatibility With ECM/PCM

Quick Answer

Some devices must be configured with specific software, serial numbers, vehicle options, or other information. Common causes include Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Programmed With Incorrect Software, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM). 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: U0301 indicates Software Incompatibility With ECM/PCM.
Common causes: Common causes include Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Programmed With Incorrect Software, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
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 24,872

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 07, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code U0301 Description

Some devices must be configured with specific software, serial numbers, vehicle options, or other information. If a device was not properly configured after installation that the device may set the appropriate communication Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)s. No external circuit diagnosis is involved. The DTC sets when the Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is not configured properly

OBDII Code U0301 - Software Incompatibility With ECM/PCM - AutoCodes.com — U0301 Code - Software Incompatibility With ECM/PCM

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0301?

Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Programmed With Incorrect Software
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC U0301?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Verify the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is at the latest calibration level.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the U0301 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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Information for Specific Makes

U0301 Buick — Software Incompatibility With Engine Control Module
U0301 Cadillac — Software Incompatibility With Engine Control Module
U0301 Chevrolet — Software Incompatibility With Engine Control Module
U0301 Ford — Software Incompatibility With ECM/PCM
U0301 GMC — Software Incompatibility With Engine Control Module
U0301 Lincoln — Software Incompatibility With ECM/PCM
U0301 Mercury — Software Incompatibility With ECM/PCM

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.