AutoCodes – Chevrolet – U1881 Chevrolet

U1881 Chevrolet Code - Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the class 2 and high-speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Energy Storage Control Module (ESCM), Energy Storage Control Module harness is open or shorted, Energy Storage 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: U1881 Chevrolet indicates Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Energy Storage Control Module (ESCM), Energy Storage Control Module harness is open or shorted, Energy Storage 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 602

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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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 U1881 Chevrolet Description

Modules connected to the class 2 and high-speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the modules. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is reported on a class 2 link to the scan tool by Powertrain Control Module (PCM) even if they may be set by different modules. The DTC will set when a node alive message has not been received from an identified module within the last 5 seconds after establishing class 2 serial data communication, or a supervised high-speed GMLAN message has not been received.

OBDII Code U1881 Chevrolet - Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U1881 Chevrolet Code - Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1881 Chevrolet?

Faulty Energy Storage Control Module (ESCM)
Energy Storage Control Module harness is open or shorted
Energy Storage Control Module circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) Module

How to Fix the DTC U1881 Chevrolet?

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 U1881 Chevrolet 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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Need Help with the 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 U1881 Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code U1881 mean on a Chevrolet?

The U1881 code indicates the Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) module has lost communication with the Energy Storage Control Module (ESCM).

2. What are the common symptoms of the U1881 code in a Chevrolet?

Symptoms may include loss of power steering assist, a warning light on the dash, or intermittent steering difficulty.

3. What causes the U1881 code to appear in a Chevrolet?

Common causes include faulty wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning EHPS module, a defective ESCM, or communication issues between the modules.

4. Can I still drive my Chevrolet with the U1881 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, losing power steering assist can make steering harder, especially at low speeds, and may pose a safety risk.

5. How do I diagnose the U1881 code in my Chevrolet?

Diagnosis involves checking for damaged wiring or connectors, verifying module power and ground, and using a scan tool to check communication between the EHPS and ESCM.

6. What repairs are needed to fix the U1881 code in a Chevrolet?

Repairs may include fixing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning or reseating connectors, updating module software, or replacing a faulty EHPS or ESCM.

7. Can a weak battery cause the U1881 code in a Chevrolet?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause communication issues between modules and trigger the U1881 code.

8. How much does it cost to fix the U1881 code on a Chevrolet?

Repair costs vary but can range from $100 for simple wiring fixes to over $1,000 if a module replacement is needed.

9. Can clearing the U1881 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code will reset the warning, but if the underlying issue isn't resolved, the code will likely return.

10. Is the U1881 code specific to Chevrolet vehicles?

No, the U1881 code can appear on other vehicles with similar module communication systems, but the specifics of the repair may vary by make and model.