AutoCodes – Buick – U0126 Buick

U0126 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the high speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor 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: U0126 Buick indicates Lost Communication With Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor 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 1,794

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 01, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0126 Buick Description

Modules connected to the 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 modules 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 module as an availability indication of the transmitter module. The supervision time-out period is 250 ms. Each message contains the identification number of the transmitter module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when a periodic message from the Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module has not been received.

OBDII Code U0126 Buick - Lost Communication With Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module - AutoCodes.com — U0126 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0126 Buick?

Faulty Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module
Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module harness is open or shorted
Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0126 Buick?

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 U0126 Buick 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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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 U0126 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code U0126 mean on a Buick?

U0126 indicates that the vehicle has lost communication with the Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Module, which is critical for systems like stability control and electronic power steering.

2. What are the common symptoms of code U0126 on a Buick?

Symptoms may include the illumination of the ABS or stability control warning light, loss of power steering assist, and reduced or disabled traction control functionality.

3. What causes the U0126 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty steering wheel angle sensor module, damaged or corroded wiring, a malfunctioning CAN bus network, or a failed control module.

4. Can I still drive my Buick with the U0126 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, its safety systems like traction control and stability control may not function properly, which could increase the risk of an accident.

5. How do I diagnose the U0126 code on my Buick?

Start by checking the wiring and connectors related to the steering angle sensor module for damage or corrosion. Use a scan tool to verify communication with the module on the CAN bus network.

6. Does the U0126 code mean the steering wheel angle sensor is defective?

Not necessarily. The issue could also be related to wiring, connectors, or the CAN bus network. Thorough diagnosis is required to confirm the root cause.

7. How much does it cost to fix the U0126 code on a Buick?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the issue. Replacing a steering wheel angle sensor typically costs $200-$400, while fixing wiring or connector issues may be less expensive.

8. Can a weak battery trigger the U0126 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause communication issues within the CAN bus network, potentially triggering the U0126 code.

9. How do I reset the U0126 code after repairs?

Use an OBDII scan tool to clear the code after completing repairs. If the issue is resolved, the code should not return.

10. Is the U0126 code related to the ABS system?

Yes, the steering wheel angle sensor is an essential input for the ABS and stability control systems, so a loss of communication can impact these functions.