AutoCodes – Generic – U016A

U016A Code - Lost Communication With Global Positioning System 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 Global Positioning System Module, Global Positioning System Module harness is open or shorted, Global Positioning System 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: U016A indicates Lost Communication With Global Positioning System Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Global Positioning System Module, Global Positioning System Module harness is open or shorted, Global Positioning System 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 5,270

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
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Code U016A 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 Global Positioning System Module has not been received.

OBDII Code U016A - Lost Communication With Global Positioning System Module - AutoCodes.com — U016A Code - Lost Communication With Global Positioning System Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U016A?

Faulty Global Positioning System Module
Global Positioning System Module harness is open or shorted
Global Positioning System Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U016A?

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 U016A 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 U016A code?

Need more information on how to fix the U016A code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U016A code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U016A Ford — Lost Communication With Global Positioning System Module
U016A Lincoln — Lost Communication With Global Positioning System Module
U016A Mercury — Lost Communication With Global Positioning System 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 U016A Code

What does the OBDII code U016A mean?

The code U016A indicates a loss of communication with the Global Positioning System (GPS) module, meaning the module isn't transmitting or receiving data as expected.

What are the common symptoms of the U016A code?

Symptoms include the GPS system not working, navigation errors, lack of location updates, and possibly a warning light on the dashboard.

What causes the U016A code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty GPS module, damaged or corroded wiring, poor connections, or issues with the vehicle's communication network.

Can a blown fuse cause the U016A code?

Yes, a blown fuse related to the GPS module or communication system can disrupt power and lead to this code.

How do I diagnose the U016A code?

Start by checking the GPS module's wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, inspect related fuses, and use a diagnostic scan tool to check for other communication codes.

Can I drive my car with the U016A code?

Yes, you can still drive the car, but features like navigation and other GPS-dependent systems may not function correctly.

How do I fix the U016A code?

Repairs may include replacing the GPS module, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing issues in the communication network.

How much does it cost to fix the U016A code?

Repair costs vary but may range from $100 to $500 depending on whether the issue is with wiring, the GPS module, or other components.

Can a software update fix the U016A code?

In some cases, a software update for the GPS module or communication system may resolve this issue if it's caused by a programming glitch.

What tools do I need to fix the U016A code?

You'll need a diagnostic scan tool, a multimeter for electrical testing, and potentially wiring repair tools to address the issue.

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