AutoCodes – Generic – U042E

U042E Code - Invalid Data Received From Generator Control 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 Generator Control Module, Generator Control Module harness is open or shorted, Generator 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: U042E indicates Invalid Data Received From Generator Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Generator Control Module, Generator Control Module harness is open or shorted, Generator 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 1,646

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 11, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code U042E 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. Some devices are constantly receiving information from other devices through serial data communication network. The invalid data Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when a receiving device detects a discrepancy in the information it receives from the Generator Control Module causing its integrity to be questioned.

OBDII Code U042E - Invalid Data Received From Generator Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U042E Code - Invalid Data Received From Generator Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U042E?

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

How to Fix the DTC U042E?

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 U042E 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 U042E code?

Need more information on how to fix the U042E code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U042E code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U042E Ford — Invalid Data Received From Generator Control Module
U042E Lincoln — Invalid Data Received From Generator Control Module
U042E Mercury — Invalid Data Received From Generator Control 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 U042E Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code U042E (Invalid Data Received From Generator Control Module)?

- Common symptoms include illuminated check engine light, issues with electrical systems, and potential stalling of the vehicle.

2. What are possible causes of OBDII code U042E?

- Possible causes include faulty generator control module, damaged wiring or connectors, software issues, or problems with the communication network.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code U042E?

- Diagnosis involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code, checking for other related codes, inspecting wiring and connectors, and testing the generator control module.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code U042E?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to potential issues with the electrical systems and cause further damage.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code U042E?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, reprogramming the generator control module, or replacing the control module if necessary.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code U042E?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, but it may range from a few hundred dollars for simple fixes to over a thousand dollars for more complex issues.

7. Can I reset OBDII code U042E with a simple reset tool?

- Resetting the code with a simple reset tool may temporarily clear the code, but it is important to diagnose and fix the underlying issue to prevent it from reoccurring.

8. Will OBDII code U042E cause my vehicle to fail emissions testing?

- Yes, the presence of this code may cause your vehicle to fail emissions testing, as it indicates a problem with the generator control module and can affect the vehicle's emissions systems.

9. Is it safe to ignore OBDII code U042E and continue driving?

- Ignoring this code can lead to potential issues with the electrical systems of your vehicle, so it is best to address the problem promptly to ensure safe and reliable operation.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code U042E?

- The repair time can vary depending on the specific cause of the code and the complexity of the repair, but it may take a few hours to a full day to diagnose and fix the issue.