AutoCodes – Generic – U0137

U0137 Code - Lost Communication with Trailer Brake 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 Trailer Brake Control Module, Trailer Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Trailer Brake 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: U0137 indicates Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Trailer Brake Control Module, Trailer Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Trailer Brake 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 10,626

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 Jul 21, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0137 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) will be set when the device setting the DTC has attempted to establish communications on the serial data circuits more than 3 times in 5 s.

OBDII Code U0137 - Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U0137 Code - Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0137?

Faulty Trailer Brake Control Module
Trailer Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted
Trailer Brake Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0137?

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 U0137 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.

Need more information about the U0137 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0137 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0137 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U0137 Buick — Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Cadillac — Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Chevrolet — Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Chrysler — Lost Communication With Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Dodge — Lost Communication With Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Ford — Lost Communication With Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 GMC — Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Jeep — Lost Communication With Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Lincoln — Lost Communication With Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 Mercury — Lost Communication With Trailer Brake Control Module
U0137 RAM — Lost Communication With Trailer Brake Control Module

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 U0137 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0137, Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module?

- Common symptoms include a disabled trailer brake system, malfunctioning brake lights on the trailer, and an illuminated "Trailer Brake Module Fault" warning on the dashboard.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code U0137?

- The code U0137 can be triggered by issues such as damaged wiring or connectors, a faulty trailer brake control module, a blown fuse related to the trailer brake system, or a communication error between modules.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code U0137?

- Diagnosing U0137 involves checking the trailer brake control module for power and ground, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, scanning the system for any additional fault codes, and conducting a thorough visual inspection.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code U0137 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the code U0137 active, as it may compromise the operation of your trailer brake system and pose a safety risk when towing.

5. How can I repair OBDII code U0137, Lost Communication with Trailer Brake Control Module?

- Repairs for U0137 may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the trailer brake control module if faulty, checking and replacing any blown fuses, and ensuring proper communication between modules.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code U0137 make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning, but if the underlying issue causing the communication error is not addressed and repaired, the code is likely to reappear upon the next system check.

7. Is it possible to fix OBDII code U0137 at home, or should I seek professional help?

- Depending on your level of automotive expertise and access to diagnostic tools, you may be able to address U0137 at home by checking basic connections and inspecting for visible damage. However, for more complex issues, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.

8. Can extreme weather conditions cause OBDII code U0137 to trigger?

- Yes, extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or extreme temperatures can potentially damage wiring, connectors, or modules involved in the trailer brake system, leading to the triggering of code U0137.

9. How can I prevent OBDII code U0137 from occurring in the future?

- To prevent U0137 from occurring, regularly inspect and maintain the trailer brake control system, keep connectors clean and free of corrosion, ensure proper wiring insulation, and avoid overloading the trailer brake system.

10. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code U0137?

- It is advisable to check with your vehicle manufacturer or authorized dealerships for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to U0137 to see if there are known issues or recommended solutions for your specific vehicle model.