AutoCodesGeneric – U0229

U0229 Code - Lost Communication With Heated Steering Wheel 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 Heated Steering Wheel Module, Heated Steering Wheel Module harness is open or shorted, Heated Steering Wheel 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
U0229 indicates Lost Communication With Heated Steering Wheel Module.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Heated Steering Wheel Module, Heated Steering Wheel Module harness is open or shorted, Heated Steering Wheel 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 2,541
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 03, 2020
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Code U0229 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 Heated Steering Wheel Module has not been received.
OBDII Code U0229 - Lost Communication With Heated Steering Wheel Module - AutoCodes.com
U0229 Code - Lost Communication With Heated Steering Wheel Module

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0229?

  • Faulty Heated Steering Wheel Module
  • Heated Steering Wheel Module harness is open or shorted
  • Heated Steering Wheel Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0229?

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 U0229 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 U0229 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 U0229 Code

1. What does the OBDII code U0229 mean?

U0229 indicates a loss of communication between the vehicle's primary control modules and the Heated Steering Wheel Module (HSWM).

2. What are common symptoms of the U0229 code?

Common symptoms include a non-functional heated steering wheel, illuminated warning lights, and potentially no response from steering wheel controls.

3. What causes the U0229 code to appear?

The code can be triggered by issues like faulty wiring, a malfunctioning Heated Steering Wheel Module, damaged connectors, or software glitches in the vehicle's communication network.

4. Can I still drive my car with the U0229 code?

Yes, you can drive the car, but the heated steering wheel feature likely won’t work, and the code may indicate a broader communication issue that should be addressed.

5. How is the U0229 code diagnosed?

A technician will typically use a scan tool to check for related codes, inspect wiring and connectors, and test the Heated Steering Wheel Module for proper operation.

6. What are the most common repairs for the U0229 code?

Repairs may include fixing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning or reconnecting loose connectors, reprogramming the module, or replacing a defective Heated Steering Wheel Module.

7. Can a software update fix the U0229 code?

Yes, if the issue is caused by a software glitch, a module reflash or software update may resolve the problem.

8. How much does it cost to fix the U0229 code?

Repair costs can range from $50 to $300, depending on whether the issue is a simple wiring fix or a complete module replacement.

9. Will clearing the U0229 code with a scan tool fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove it, but if the underlying issue isn’t resolved, the code will likely reappear.

10. Can extreme weather cause the U0229 code?

Yes, extreme cold or heat can affect wiring and connectors, potentially leading to communication issues with the Heated Steering Wheel Module.

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