AutoCodes – Jeep – U0164 Jeep

U0164 Jeep Code - Lost Communication With HVAC Control 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 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module, HVAC Control Module harness is open or shorted, HVAC 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
U0164 Jeep indicates Lost Communication With HVAC Control Module.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module, HVAC Control Module harness is open or shorted, HVAC 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 10,127
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 U0164 Jeep 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 U0164 Jeep - Lost Communication With HVAC Control Module - AutoCodes.com
U0164 Jeep Code - Lost Communication With HVAC Control Module

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0164 Jeep?

  • Faulty Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module
  • HVAC Control Module harness is open or shorted
  • HVAC Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0164 Jeep?

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 U0164 Jeep 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 U0164 Jeep code?

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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 U0164 Jeep Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0164 in a Jeep related to lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- Common symptoms include issues with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system such as no heat or AC, erratic temperature control, and malfunctioning fan speeds.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code U0164 in a Jeep indicating lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- Possible causes include a faulty HVAC control module, damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code U0164 in my Jeep for lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- Diagnosing this code typically involves checking the wiring and connectors leading to the HVAC control module, testing the module itself for functionality, and ensuring proper power supply to the module.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the OBDII code U0164 in a Jeep related to lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- While some simple checks like inspecting wiring and fuses can be done by DIY enthusiasts, advanced diagnosis and repair of the HVAC control module may require professional assistance.

5. Is it safe to continue driving my Jeep with the OBDII code U0164 indicating lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- It is generally not recommended to drive your Jeep with this code unresolved, as it can lead to further HVAC system malfunctions and potential discomfort while driving.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code U0164 in a Jeep due to lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but they may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars if the HVAC control module needs replacement.

7. Are there any preventive measures to avoid encountering the OBDII code U0164 in a Jeep related to lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- Regular maintenance checks and promptly addressing any HVAC system issues can help prevent the occurrence of this communication error code.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the likelihood of triggering the OBDII code U0164 in a Jeep for lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- Extreme temperatures or humidity levels can potentially impact the performance of the HVAC control module and its communication with the vehicle's systems, leading to the code being triggered.

9. How long does it typically take to repair the OBDII code U0164 in a Jeep caused by lost communication with the HVAC control module?

- The repair time can vary based on the complexity of the issue, availability of parts, and the technician's workload, but it may take a few hours to a day to diagnose and fix the problem.

10. Can resetting the vehicle's computer system resolve the OBDII code U0164 indicating lost communication with the HVAC control module in a Jeep?

- While resetting the computer system may clear the code temporarily, it is important to address the root cause of the communication error to prevent the code from reoccurring.

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