AutoCodes – Generic – U1166

U1166 Code - Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Module, Driver Seat Module harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat 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: U1166 indicates Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Module, Driver Seat Module harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat 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 4,799

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 24, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code U1166 Description

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the modules. When a module receives a message for a critical operating parameter, the module records the identification number of the module which sent the message for the state of health monitoring/node alive messages. A critical operating parameter is one which, when not received, requires that the module use a default value for that parameter. Once an identification number is learned by a module, it will monitor for that module node alive message. Each module on the class 2 serial data circuit is required to send a Node Alive message every 2 seconds. When no message is detected from a learned identification number for 5 seconds, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U1166 is set.

OBDII Code U1166 - Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module - AutoCodes.com — U1166 Code - Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1166?

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

How to Fix the DTC U1166?

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 U1166 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

U1166 Buick — Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module
U1166 Cadillac — Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module
U1166 Chevrolet — Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module
U1166 GMC — Lost Communications With Driver Seat Module

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.