AutoCodes – GMC – U1878 GMC

U1878 GMC Code - Drive Motor B Control Module Lost Communication With Battery Energy Control Module

Quick Answer

Devices connected to the serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Battery Energy Control Module, Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Energy 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: U1878 GMC indicates Drive Motor B Control Module Lost Communication With Battery Energy Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Battery Energy Control Module, Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Energy 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 575

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 Jun 08, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U1878 GMC Description

Devices connected to the serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the devices. The devices 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 device as an availability indication of the transmitter device. Each message contains the identification number of the transmitter device. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set if a supervised periodic message that includes the transmitter device availability has not been received.

OBDII Code U1878 GMC - Drive Motor B Control Module Lost Communication With Battery Energy Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U1878 GMC Code - Drive Motor B Control Module Lost Communication With Battery Energy Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1878 GMC?

Faulty Battery Energy Control Module
Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted
Battery Energy Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U1878 GMC?

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 U1878 GMC 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 U1878 GMC code?

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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 U1878 GMC Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U1878 GMC?

- Common symptoms include illumination of the Check Engine light, loss of communication between drive motor control module and battery energy control module, and potential drivability issues.

2. What could cause the OBDII code U1878 GMC to occur?

- The code can be triggered by a faulty drive motor B control module, issues with the battery energy control module, damaged wiring or connectors, or a software communication error.

3. How can I diagnose the U1878 GMC code?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, checking for other related codes, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, and performing communication tests between modules.

4. What are the repair options for U1878 GMC code?

- Repair options may include repairing or replacing faulty control modules, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, updating software, and ensuring proper communication between modules.

5. Can I drive my vehicle with the U1878 GMC code present?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code present as it can lead to drivability issues and potentially cause further damage to the control modules.

6. How much does it cost to repair the U1878 GMC code?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, the extent of the issue, and the labor rates of the repair shop. It is recommended to get a professional diagnosis for an accurate estimate.

7. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the U1878 GMC code?

- Regular maintenance of the vehicle's electrical system, including checking wiring and connections, can help prevent issues that may trigger this code.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the U1878 GMC code?

- While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing this code may require specialized tools and knowledge, so it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic.

9. How urgent is it to address the U1878 GMC code?

- It is important to address this code promptly to prevent potential drivability issues and further damage to the control modules. Driving with communication errors between important modules is not ideal and should be resolved as soon as possible.

10. Is the U1878 GMC code specific to GMC vehicles only?

- While the U1878 code may be specific to GMC vehicles, similar codes related to communication issues between control modules can be found in other vehicle makes and models.