AutoCodes – Mercury – U042E Mercury

U042E Mercury 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 Mercury 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.

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Code Popularity 668

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U042E Mercury?

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 Mercury?

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 Mercury 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 U042E Mercury Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code U042E in a Mercury vehicle?

Common symptoms include issues with the charging system, battery draining quickly, illuminated warning lights on the dashboard, and potential stalling of the engine.

2. What does the OBDII code U042E in a Mercury indicate?

The code U042E indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected invalid data coming from the Generator Control Module (GCM).

3. What are some possible causes of the U042E code in a Mercury?

Possible causes include a faulty Generator Control Module, wiring issues between the GCM and ECM, a weak battery, or a malfunctioning charging system.

4. How can I diagnose the U042E code in my Mercury?

Diagnosing the U042E code typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code and then inspecting the wiring connections between the GCM and ECM, checking the battery and charging system, and testing the GCM for proper functionality.

5. Can I still drive my Mercury with the U042E code present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the U042E code present, as it could lead to potential issues with the charging system and cause the vehicle to stall unexpectedly.

6. How can I reset the U042E code in my Mercury?

Resetting the U042E code can be done using an OBDII scanner by clearing the code after addressing the underlying issue with the Generator Control Module or related components.

7. Is it safe to ignore the U042E code in my Mercury?

Ignoring the U042E code can lead to further electrical system problems and potential stalling of the vehicle, so it is advisable to address the issue promptly.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the U042E code in a Mercury?

While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing the U042E code may require specialized tools and expertise, so consulting a professional mechanic is recommended.

9. How much does it cost to fix the U042E code in a Mercury?

The cost of fixing the U042E code can vary depending on the underlying cause. It may involve replacing the Generator Control Module, repairing wiring issues, or addressing charging system problems, so the cost can range from a few hundred to a thousand dollars.

10. How long does it take to repair the U042E code in a Mercury?

The repair time for the U042E code can vary based on the specific cause and the extent of the issue. It could take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to diagnose and repair the problem effectively.