AutoCodes – Generic – U0481

U0481 Code - Invalid Data Received From Automatic Lighting 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 Automatic Lighting Control Module, Automatic Lighting Control Module harness is open or shorted, Automatic Lighting 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: U0481 indicates Invalid Data Received From Automatic Lighting Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Automatic Lighting Control Module, Automatic Lighting Control Module harness is open or shorted, Automatic Lighting 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 3,061

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 13, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U0481 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 Automatic Lighting Control Module causing its integrity to be questioned.

OBDII Code U0481 - Invalid Data Received From Automatic Lighting Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U0481 Code - Invalid Data Received From Automatic Lighting Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U0481?

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

How to Fix the DTC U0481?

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 U0481 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 U0481 Code

1. What does the OBDII code U0481 mean?

The U0481 code indicates that the vehicle's control modules have detected invalid or corrupted data from the Automatic Lighting Control Module (ALCM).

2. What are the common symptoms of the U0481 code?

Symptoms may include malfunctioning headlights, daytime running lights not working, dashboard warning lights, or reduced visibility during nighttime driving.

3. What causes the U0481 code to appear?

The code can be triggered by issues such as a faulty Automatic Lighting Control Module, poor electrical connections, damaged wiring, or a software glitch in the vehicle's communication network.

4. Can I drive my car with the U0481 code?

Yes, you can typically drive the car, but compromised lighting systems could pose a safety risk, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. Prompt diagnosis and repair are recommended.

5. How do I diagnose the U0481 code?

Start by inspecting the Automatic Lighting Control Module, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a diagnostic scan tool to check for related codes and monitor communication between modules.

6. What is the most common repair for the U0481 code?

The most common repair is replacing the Automatic Lighting Control Module if it's determined to be faulty, although repairing damaged wiring or updating module software may also resolve the issue.

7. Can a dead battery cause the U0481 code?

Yes, a weak or dead battery can lead to communication errors between control modules, potentially triggering the U0481 code.

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

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the warning, but if the underlying issue isn't resolved, the code will likely reappear.

9. How much does it cost to fix the U0481 code?

Repair costs vary but may range from $50 for minor wiring repairs to $500 or more for replacing the Automatic Lighting Control Module, depending on your vehicle and labor rates.

10. Can software updates fix the U0481 code?

Yes, in some cases, a module software update from the manufacturer can resolve communication errors and fix the U0481 code without hardware replacement.