U0126 RAM Code - Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor Module
Quick Answer
The primary communication network between electronic control modules on this vehicle is the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus system. Common causes include Faulty Steering Angle Sensor, Faulty Steering Angle Sensor Module, Steering Angle Sensor Module harness is open or shorted. 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 RAM indicates Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor Module.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Steering Angle Sensor, Faulty Steering Angle Sensor Module, Steering Angle Sensor Module harness is open or shorted.
- 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.
Code U0126 RAM Description
All modules transmit and receive messages over one of these buses. Data exchange between the modules is achieved by serial transmission of encoded data messages (a form of transmission in which data bits are sent sequentially, one at a time, over a single line). Each module can both send and receive serial data simultaneously. Each data bit of a CAN Bus message is carried over the bus as a voltage differential between the two bus circuits which, when strung together, form a message. Each module uses arbitration to sort the message priority if two competing messages are attempting to be broadcast at the same time. Corruption of a single bit within a message will corrupt the entire message. Each message contains a Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) which specifies the message size exactly. If the message detected conflicts with the CRC the ECU receiving it will determine the message to be an error and consider that communication has not been possible. Diagnosis of this condition using a lab scope may reveal activity that appears to be Bus data messages even if no actual communication is possible. Communication problems that affect the whole bus, as a result of opens and terminal push outs are more likely to occur on data busses that operate at a high speed than a data bus that operates at a lower speed.
When an open circuit or terminal push out occurs one or more modules can become isolated from the remainder of the bus. The isolated module will attempt to communicate. Since each module contains it own termination a module that is isolated may receive its own messages correctly but will not be able to receive messages or determine arbitration from other modules. Each time the isolated module attempts to communicate it alters the bus voltage on the intact bus circuit. Without functioning arbitration the isolated module alters the bus voltage while other bus messages are being sent thereby corrupting the messages on the remainder of the bus.
The CAN bus modules are connected in parallel to the two-wire bus using a twisted pair, where the wires are wrapped around each other to provide shielding from unwanted electromagnetic induction, thus preventing interference with the relatively low voltage signals being carried through them. While the CAN bus is operating (active), one of the bus wires will carry a higher voltage and is referred to as the CAN High or CAN bus (+) wire, while the other bus wire will carry a lower voltage and is referred to as the CAN Low or CAN bus (-) wire.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0126 RAM?
- Faulty Steering Angle Sensor
- Faulty Steering Angle Sensor Module
- Steering Angle Sensor Module harness is open or shorted
- Steering Angle Sensor Module circuit poor electrical connection
- faulty Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module
How to Fix the DTC U0126 RAM?
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 RAM 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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Frequently Asked Questions about U0126 RAM Code
1. What does the OBDII code U0126 mean for a RAM vehicle?
The U0126 code means the vehicle has lost communication with the Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) module, which is crucial for various safety and stability systems.
2. What are the common symptoms of the U0126 code in a RAM?
Symptoms may include the ABS or traction control light turning on, loss of stability control functionality, or erratic steering behavior.
3. What causes the U0126 code to appear in a RAM?
Common causes include a faulty Steering Angle Sensor module, damaged wiring or connectors, issues with the CAN bus network, or a failing power supply to the module.
4. Can I drive my RAM with the U0126 code active?
While the vehicle may still be drivable, it’s unsafe to do so as stability and traction control systems may not function properly.
5. How do I diagnose the U0126 code in a RAM?
Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then check the power supply and communication lines to the SAS module using a multimeter or scan tool.
6. How do I fix the U0126 code on my RAM?
Repairs may involve replacing the Steering Angle Sensor module, repairing damaged wiring, or addressing CAN bus communication issues.
7. Can a low battery cause the U0126 code in a RAM?
Yes, a low or failing battery can disrupt communication between modules and trigger the U0126 code.
8. Is the U0126 code related to other systems in my RAM vehicle?
Yes, the SAS module is integral to systems like ABS, traction control, and stability control, so these systems may also be affected.
9. How much does it cost to fix the U0126 code on a RAM?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue, but replacing the Steering Angle Sensor module typically ranges from $200 to $600, including parts and labor.
10. Can I reset the U0126 code without fixing the problem?
You can clear the code with a scan tool, but it will likely return if the root cause isn’t addressed.
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