AutoCodes – Chevrolet – U1073 Chevrolet

U1073 Chevrolet Code - Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Sensor, Engine Coolant Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Sensor 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: U1073 Chevrolet indicates Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Sensor, Engine Coolant Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Sensor 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 1,000

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 22, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U1073 Chevrolet Description

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the modules. When a module receives a message for a critical operating parameter, the module records the identification number of the module which sent the message for the state of health monitoring/node alive messages. A critical operating parameter is one which, when not received, requires that the module use a default value for that parameter. Once an identification number is learned by a module, it will monitor for that module node alive message. Each module on the class 2 serial data circuit is required to send a Node Alive message every 2 seconds. When no message is detected from a learned identification number for 5 seconds, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U1073 is set.

OBDII Code U1073 Chevrolet - Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant - AutoCodes.com — U1073 Chevrolet Code - Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1073 Chevrolet?

Faulty Engine Coolant Sensor
Engine Coolant Sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U1073 Chevrolet?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

This is typically an electrical wiring connection issue, either at the engine controller or at the sensors being monitored by the manufacturer.
It can occur if:
Someone changes a battery while the ignition switch is left on, that is, left in the RUN position.
Someone flashes/upgrades their engine controller - other modules unable to communicate with PCM during this process - this will set U1073 at a multitude of controllers on the vehicle - all false codes. Erase and carry on.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the U1073 Chevrolet 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 U1073 Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code U1073 mean on a Chevrolet?

U1073 indicates "Invalid or Missing Data for Engine Coolant," meaning the vehicle's control module isn't receiving proper data from the engine coolant sensor or related components.

2. What are common symptoms of the U1073 code in a Chevrolet?

Symptoms may include erratic engine temperature readings, poor fuel economy, engine overheating, or the check engine light illuminating.

3. What causes the U1073 code on a Chevrolet?

Common causes include a faulty engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning control module, or network communication issues in the vehicle's data bus.

4. Can I drive my Chevrolet with the U1073 code active?

It's not recommended to drive with this code active, as inaccurate coolant temperature readings can lead to engine overheating or inefficient performance.

5. How do I diagnose the U1073 code on a Chevrolet?

Start by scanning the vehicle for additional codes, inspecting the ECT sensor and its wiring for damage, and checking the data communication network for faults.

6. How do I fix the U1073 code on my Chevrolet?

Repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or updating or reprogramming the vehicle's control module.

7. Can a bad thermostat trigger the U1073 code on a Chevrolet?

While unlikely, a malfunctioning thermostat causing erratic coolant flow could indirectly affect the ECT sensor readings and contribute to the issue.

8. Is the U1073 code related to the CAN bus system on a Chevrolet?

Yes, U1073 is a communication-related code that could stem from a fault in the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN) bus system.

9. How much does it cost to repair the U1073 code on a Chevrolet?

Repair costs vary depending on the cause, but replacing an ECT sensor typically costs $150-$300, while addressing wiring or module issues may cost more.

10. Can a low coolant level cause the U1073 code on a Chevrolet?

Low coolant levels can cause inaccurate readings from the ECT sensor, which might contribute to the U1073 code. Always ensure the coolant is at the proper level.