AutoCodes – Buick – U0197 Buick

U0197 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Telephone 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 Telephone Control Module, Telephone Control Module harness is open or shorted, Telephone 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: U0197 Buick indicates Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Telephone Control Module, Telephone Control Module harness is open or shorted, Telephone 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 604

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 U0197 Buick 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 are needed 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) sets when a periodic message from the Telephone Control Module has not been received.

OBDII Code U0197 Buick - Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U0197 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0197 Buick?

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

How to Fix the DTC U0197 Buick?

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 U0197 Buick 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.

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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 U0197 Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0197 in a Buick related to "Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module"?

The common symptoms include loss of communication with the telephone control module, malfunction of the vehicle's infotainment system, and warning lights on the dashboard.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code U0197 in a Buick?

Potential causes include a faulty telephone control module, damaged wiring or connectors, software issues, a drained battery, or a communication network failure.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to U0197 in my Buick?

Diagnosing the problem involves checking the wiring and connectors for any damage, testing the telephone control module for functionality, and using a diagnostic scanner to identify communication errors within the vehicle's network.

4. Can I continue driving my Buick with the U0197 code present?

It is not recommended to drive your Buick with the U0197 code active, as it can lead to further electrical malfunctions and potentially affect the vehicle's performance and safety systems.

5. How can I repair OBDII code U0197 in my Buick?

Repairing the issue may involve replacing the faulty telephone control module, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, updating software if necessary, and ensuring all connections are secure and functioning properly.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code U0197 in my Buick resolve the issue?

Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning lights, but it will not fix the underlying problem causing the communication error with the telephone control module.

7. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code U0197 from occurring in my Buick?

Regular maintenance, checking the vehicle's electrical system, and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent the occurrence of code U0197 related to lost communication with the telephone control module.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code U0197 in a Buick?

Depending on the root cause of the issue, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address the problem by following repair guides, checking connections, and replacing components like the telephone control module.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code U0197 in a Buick?

The repair time can vary based on the specific cause of the issue. Simple fixes like checking connections may take a short time, while more complex repairs involving module replacement can take longer.

10. Is it necessary to visit a dealership or mechanic to address OBDII code U0197 in a Buick?

While some simple checks and repairs can be done at home, consulting a dealership or mechanic with experience in diagnosing and repairing communication module issues is often recommended for a thorough and accurate fix.