AutoCodes – Generic – U0161

U0161 Code - Lost Communication With Compass Module

Quick Answer

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Common causes include Faulty Compass Module, Compass Module harness is open or shorted, Compass 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: U0161 indicates Lost Communication With Compass Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Compass Module, Compass Module harness is open or shorted, Compass 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 12,005

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 02, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code U0161 Description

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to interconnect automotive devices without a host computer. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the devices. The devices have programmed information about what messages are needed to be exchanged on the serial data circuits. CAN bus uses two dedicated wires for communication. The wires are called CAN high and CAN low. When the CAN bus is in idle mode, both lines carry 2.5V. When data bits are being transmitted, the CAN high line goes to 3.75V, and the CAN low drops to 1.25V, thereby generating a 2.5V differential between the lines. Since communication relies on a voltage differential between the two bus lines, the CAN bus is NOT sensitive to inductive spikes, electrical fields, or other noise. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when a periodic message from the Compass Module has not been received.

OBDII Code U0161 - Lost Communication With Compass Module - AutoCodes.com — U0161 Code - Lost Communication With Compass Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0161?

Faulty Compass Module
Compass Module harness is open or shorted
Compass Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0161?

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 U0161 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 U0161 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U0161 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U0161 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U0161 Chrysler — Lost Communication With Compass Module
U0161 Dodge — Lost Communication With Compass Module
U0161 Jeep — Lost Communication With Compass Module
U0161 RAM — Lost Communication With Compass 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 U0161 Code

1. What does the OBDII code U0161 mean?

The U0161 code indicates the vehicle has lost communication with the compass module, which may affect navigation or directional display systems.

2. What are common symptoms of the U0161 code?

Symptoms can include a malfunctioning or blank compass display, inability to show directional information, or warning lights on the dashboard.

3. What causes the U0161 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty compass module, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the vehicleâ€™s CAN bus communication network.

4. Can driving with the U0161 code cause damage?

While the code typically affects non-critical systems like the compass display, ignoring it may lead to further communication issues or affect related features.

5. How do I diagnose the U0161 code?

You can diagnose this code by inspecting the compass module, checking for damaged wiring, testing connectors, and scanning the CAN bus network for other communication faults.

6. How do I fix the U0161 code?

Repairs may include replacing the compass module, repairing damaged wires or connectors, or addressing communication issues in the CAN bus system.

7. Can a software update resolve the U0161 code?

In some cases, a software update to the vehicleâ€™s control modules may resolve communication issues related to the U0161 code.

8. How much does it cost to repair the U0161 code?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on whether the compass module needs replacement or if wiring repairs are required, typically ranging from $100 to $500.

9. Can a bad battery cause the U0161 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can disrupt communication between modules and potentially trigger the U0161 code.

10. Do I need a professional to fix the U0161 code?

While DIY repairs are possible for basic wiring checks, complex issues with the CAN bus network or module replacement typically require professional assistance.