AutoCodes – Chevrolet – U0131 Chevrolet

U0131 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication with Power Steering Control 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 Power Steering Control Module, Power Steering Control Module harness is open or shorted, Power Steering 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: U0131 Chevrolet indicates Lost Communication with Power Steering Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Power Steering Control Module, Power Steering Control Module harness is open or shorted, Power Steering 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 12,837

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 Mar 27, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0131 Chevrolet 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 need 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 Power Steering Control Module has not been received.

OBDII Code U0131 Chevrolet - Lost Communication with Power Steering Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U0131 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication with Power Steering Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0131 Chevrolet?

Faulty Power Steering Control Module
Power Steering Control Module harness is open or shorted
Power Steering Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0131 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 U0131 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 more information on how to fix the U0131 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 U0131 Chevrolet Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code U0131 in a Chevrolet related to the Power Steering Control Module?

Common symptoms include loss of power steering assistance, illuminated warning lights on the dashboard, and difficulty steering.

2. What are some possible causes of the U0131 OBDII code indicating lost communication with the Power Steering Control Module in a Chevrolet?

Potential causes include a faulty power steering control module, loose or damaged wiring connections, a defective CAN bus system, or a malfunctioning electronic control unit.

3. How can I diagnose the U0131 code in my Chevrolet to identify the source of the communication issue with the Power Steering Control Module?

You can perform a visual inspection of the wiring harness and connections, use a diagnostic scanner to read the trouble codes, and conduct specific tests to check the communication between the control modules.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with the U0131 OBDII code related to the Power Steering Control Module issue?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it may lead to sudden loss of power steering assistance, resulting in unsafe driving conditions.

5. How can I reset the U0131 trouble code in my Chevrolet after addressing the communication problem with the Power Steering Control Module?

You can reset the trouble code using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes. However, the code will reappear if the underlying issue is not resolved.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the U0131 code linked to the Power Steering Control Module in a Chevrolet?

While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing communication issues with the Power Steering Control Module may require specialized tools and expertise, best left to professionals.

7. Are there any common repair tips for resolving the U0131 code in a Chevrolet associated with the Power Steering Control Module?

Ensure all wiring connections are secure, check for any visible damage to the wiring harness, and consider consulting a professional technician for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

8. How much does it typically cost to fix the U0131 OBDII code indicating lost communication with the Power Steering Control Module in a Chevrolet?

The cost of repairs can vary depending on the root cause of the communication issue, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

9. Can a weak car battery cause the U0131 code to trigger in a Chevrolet related to the Power Steering Control Module?

Yes, a weak or failing car battery can lead to communication errors between control modules, potentially triggering the U0131 code. It is advisable to ensure the battery is in good condition when diagnosing this issue.

10. Is the U0131 OBDII code exclusive to Chevrolet vehicles, or can it occur in other car makes and models?

The U0131 code related to lost communication with the Power Steering Control Module can occur in various car makes and models, not exclusive to Chevrolet vehicles. It is a generic code indicating a communication problem with a specific control module.