AutoCodes – Chrysler – U0161 Chrysler

U0161 Chrysler Code - Lost Communication With Compass 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 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 Chrysler 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,394
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 02, 2020
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Code U0161 Chrysler Description

The primary communication network between electronic control modules on this vehicle is the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus system. The Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus allows all electronic modules connected to the bus to share information with each other. Regardless of whether a message originates from a module on the higher speed CAN C (500K) Bus or on the lower speed CAN Interior High Speed (IHS) (125K) Bus the message structure and layout is similar, which allows the Totally Integrated Power Module/Central GateWay (TIPM or TIPMCGW) to process and transfer messages between the CAN buses. The TIPM also stores Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for certain bus network faults.
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.
OBDII Code U0161 Chrysler - Lost Communication With Compass Module - AutoCodes.com
U0161 Chrysler Code - Lost Communication With Compass Module

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0161 Chrysler?

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

How to Fix the DTC U0161 Chrysler?

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 Chrysler 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 Chrysler code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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

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 Chrysler Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0161 in a Chrysler indicating a lost communication with the Compass module?

- Common symptoms include malfunctioning compass display, inaccurate direction readings, and potential issues with the vehicle's navigation system.

2. What are the typical causes of OBDII code U0161 in a Chrysler?

- The code U0161 is often triggered by a faulty Compass module, damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse, or issues with the vehicle's main computer network.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code U0161 in my Chrysler?

- Diagnosing the code U0161 involves checking the Compass module for power and ground, inspecting wiring for damage, verifying connector integrity, and using a scan tool to communicate with the module.

4. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code U0161 in a Chrysler?

- Repair tips may include checking and replacing blown fuses, repairing damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections to the Compass module, and reprogramming or replacing the module if necessary.

5. Can OBDII code U0161 in a Chrysler be fixed without professional help?

- While some basic checks and repairs can be done by DIY enthusiasts, resolving code U0161 may require advanced diagnostic tools and expertise, making professional assistance advisable in many cases.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code U0161 present in a Chrysler?

- It is generally not recommended to drive with unresolved OBDII codes, including U0161, as they can indicate underlying issues that may affect the vehicle's performance or safety.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code U0161 in a Chrysler make it go away permanently?

- Simply resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning, but if the underlying issue causing code U0161 is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear upon further diagnostic checks.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code U0161 in a Chrysler at a dealership or repair shop?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of code U0161, but it may involve diagnostic fees, replacement parts, labor costs, and potentially reprogramming services, resulting in a varied total cost.

9. Can extreme weather conditions or environmental factors trigger OBDII code U0161 in a Chrysler?

- While extreme weather or environmental conditions may not directly cause code U0161, they can potentially exacerbate existing issues with the Compass module or its connections, leading to the code being triggered.

10. Are there any recalls or service bulletins related to OBDII code U0161 in Chrysler vehicles?

- It is advisable to check with Chrysler's official website, authorized dealerships, or automotive forums for any recalls or service bulletins related to code U0161, as manufacturers may issue updates or remedies for known issues.

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