AutoCodes – Chevrolet – U1161 Chevrolet

U1161 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communications With Front Passenger Door Module

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Front Passenger Door Module (FPDM), Front Passenger Door Module harness is open or shorted, Front Passenger Door 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: U1161 Chevrolet indicates Lost Communications With Front Passenger Door Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Front Passenger Door Module (FPDM), Front Passenger Door Module harness is open or shorted, Front Passenger Door 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 4,893

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 24, 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 U1161 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) U1161 is set.

OBDII Code U1161 Chevrolet - Lost Communications With Front Passenger Door Module - AutoCodes.com — U1161 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communications With Front Passenger Door Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1161 Chevrolet?

Faulty Front Passenger Door Module (FPDM)
Front Passenger Door Module harness is open or shorted
Front Passenger Door Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U1161 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the U1161 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.

Need more information about the U1161 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the U1161 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U1161 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 U1161 Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code U1161 mean on a Chevrolet?

The U1161 code indicates a lost communication with the Front Passenger Door Module (FPDM), meaning the module isn't properly exchanging data with other vehicle systems.

2. What are the symptoms of a U1161 code on a Chevrolet?

Common symptoms include non-functioning power windows, door locks, or mirrors on the front passenger side, and possibly a warning light on the dashboard.

3. What causes the U1161 code to appear on a Chevrolet?

The code can be triggered by a faulty Front Passenger Door Module, wiring issues like damaged or corroded connections, or a problem with the vehicle's CAN (Controller Area Network) communication.

4. Can a weak battery cause the U1161 code on a Chevrolet?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause communication issues, including the U1161 code, as insufficient voltage may disrupt the CAN network.

5. How do you diagnose a U1161 code on a Chevrolet?

Diagnosis involves checking the wiring and connectors to the Front Passenger Door Module for damage or corrosion, testing the module itself, and scanning the entire CAN network for related communication issues.

6. How do you fix the U1161 code on a Chevrolet?

Repairs may include replacing or repairing damaged wiring or connectors, reprogramming or replacing the Front Passenger Door Module, or addressing any underlying network issues.

7. Can you still drive with a U1161 code on a Chevrolet?

Yes, the vehicle is typically drivable, but features like the passenger-side power window, lock, or mirror may not work properly, which could impact convenience and safety.

8. Does the U1161 code require module reprogramming on a Chevrolet?

In some cases, after replacing the Front Passenger Door Module, reprogramming or recalibrating it using a GM-compatible scan tool may be necessary.

9. How much does it cost to fix the U1161 code on a Chevrolet?

The cost can vary depending on the issue, ranging from $50-$150 for minor wiring repairs to $300-$600 if the module needs replacement and reprogramming.

10. Can a U1161 code on a Chevrolet clear itself?

No, the code will not clear itself unless the underlying issue is fixed. However, after repairs, the code can be cleared using an OBDII scan tool.