AutoCodesRAM – U0291 RAM

U0291 RAM Code - Lost Communication With Gear Shift Control Module 'B'

Quick Answer

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to connect automotive devices without a host computer. Common causes include Faulty Gear Shift Control Module 'B', Gear Shift Control Module 'B' harness is open or shorted, Gear Shift Control Module 'B' 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
U0291 RAM indicates Lost Communication With Gear Shift Control Module 'B'.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Gear Shift Control Module 'B', Gear Shift Control Module 'B' harness is open or shorted, Gear Shift Control Module 'B' 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 161
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 26, 2024
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Code U0291 RAM Description

A Controller Area Network (CAN) is a vehicle bus standard designed to connect automotive devices without a host computer. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the devices, which are programmed to know which messages need to be exchanged over the serial data circuits. The CAN bus uses two dedicated wires for communication, known as CAN high and CAN low. In idle mode, both lines carry 2.5V. During data transmission, the CAN high line rises to 3.75V and the CAN low drops to 1.25V, creating a 2.5V differential between the lines. Since communication depends on this voltage differential, the CAN bus is not sensitive to inductive spikes, electrical fields, or other forms of noise. A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set when a periodic message from the Gear Shift Control Module 'B' is not received.
OBDII Code U0291 RAM - Lost Communication With Gear Shift Control Module 'B' - AutoCodes.com
U0291 RAM Code - Lost Communication With Gear Shift Control Module 'B'

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0291 RAM?

  • Faulty Gear Shift Control Module 'B'
  • Gear Shift Control Module 'B' harness is open or shorted
  • Gear Shift Control Module 'B' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U0291 RAM?

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 U0291 RAM 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 U0291 RAM Code

1. What does OBDII code U0291 mean on a RAM vehicle?

U0291 indicates that there is a loss of communication between the Gear Shift Control Module 'B' and other modules in the vehicle.

2. What are the common symptoms of code U0291?

Symptoms can include the inability to shift gears, erratic gear shifting, transmission stuck in one gear, or the illumination of the check engine light.

3. What causes code U0291 to appear?

Potential causes include a faulty Gear Shift Control Module, damaged wiring or connectors, low battery voltage, or issues with the CAN bus communication network.

4. How is U0291 diagnosed?

It is diagnosed by using a professional-grade OBDII scanner to check for related codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors, and testing the Gear Shift Control Module for proper function.

5. Can a low battery trigger code U0291?

Yes, a low or failing battery can disrupt communication between modules and lead to this code.

6. How do you fix code U0291 on a RAM vehicle?

Repairs may include replacing or repairing damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections, reprogramming or replacing the Gear Shift Control Module, or addressing issues with the CAN bus network.

7. Can driving with code U0291 cause further damage?

Yes, continuing to drive with this code can lead to transmission issues or further communication faults, potentially causing more expensive repairs.

8. Does code U0291 require module replacement?

Not always. The issue may be resolved by repairing wiring or connectors, but if the module itself is faulty, it may need replacement.

9. Is U0291 specific to RAM vehicles?

No, U0291 can appear on other vehicles as well, but the specific components affected depend on the vehicle’s make and model.

10. Can clearing the code fix U0291?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove the warning, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

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