AutoCodes – Generic – U2010

U2010 Code - Illumination Switch Circuit Short

Quick Answer

The Body Control Module (BCM) supplies voltage to all non-networked illumination sources through 1 of 3 circuits. Common causes include Faulty Illumination Switch, Illumination Switch harness is open or shorted, Illumination Switch 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: U2010 indicates Illumination Switch Circuit Short.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Illumination Switch, Illumination Switch harness is open or shorted, Illumination Switch 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 12,763

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 11, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code U2010 Description

The Body Control Module (BCM) supplies voltage to all non-networked illumination sources through 1 of 3 circuits. Each circuit has separate Field-Effect Transistor (FET) protection that is used to disable the output driver for the circuit if a short to ground is detected. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set in continuous memory and on-demand when the BCM detects an excessive or a lower than expected current draw from a switch illumination circuit.

OBDII Code U2010 - Illumination Switch Circuit Short - AutoCodes.com — U2010 Code - Illumination Switch Circuit Short

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U2010?

Faulty Illumination Switch
Illumination Switch harness is open or shorted
Illumination Switch circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC U2010?

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

U2010:11 Illumination Switch Circuit Short to Ground
U2010:15 Illumination Switch Circuit Short to Battery or Open

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the U2010 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

U2010 Ford — Illumination Switch Circuit Short
U2010 Lincoln — Illumination Switch Circuit Short
U2010 Mercury — Illumination Switch Circuit Short

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.