AutoCodes – Dodge – U1461 Dodge

U1461 Dodge Code - Implausible Data Received From ESM On DPT

Quick Answer

The purpose of the diagnostic is to monitor the Controller Area Network (CAN) BUS, the transmitted messages on the CAN BUS and the validity of the CAN signals. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Shift Module (ESM), Electronic Shift Module (ESM) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Shift Module (ESM) 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: U1461 Dodge indicates Implausible Data Received From ESM On DPT.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Shift Module (ESM), Electronic Shift Module (ESM) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Shift Module (ESM) 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 577

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 May 25, 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 U1461 Dodge Description

The purpose of the diagnostic is to monitor the Controller Area Network (CAN) BUS, the transmitted messages on the CAN BUS and the validity of the CAN signals. Several control units are connected to the CAN BUS which sends their messages cyclically in a defined time window. The messages contain multiple signals representing vehicle information. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the Transmission Control Module (TCM) detects an incorrect CAN ID from the Electronic Shift Module (ESM).

OBDII Code U1461 Dodge - Implausible Data Received From ESM On DPT - AutoCodes.com — U1461 Dodge Code - Implausible Data Received From ESM On DPT

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1461 Dodge?

Faulty Electronic Shift Module (ESM)
Electronic Shift Module (ESM) harness is open or shorted
Electronic Shift Module (ESM) circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM)

How to Fix the DTC U1461 Dodge?

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 U1461 Dodge 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 U1461 Dodge code?

Need more information on how to fix the U1461 Dodge code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U1461 Dodge 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 U1461 Dodge Code

What does the OBDII code U1461 mean on a Dodge vehicle?

The U1461 code indicates "Implausible Data Received From ESM On DPT," meaning the transmission control module (TCM) has received invalid or inconsistent data from the Electronic Shift Module (ESM).

What are the common symptoms of the U1461 code?

Symptoms may include a check engine light, issues with shifting gears, transmission stuck in limp mode, and erratic or delayed gear changes.

What causes the U1461 code to appear on a Dodge?

Common causes include faulty wiring or connections between the ESM and TCM, a malfunctioning Electronic Shift Module, a defective Transmission Control Module, or software glitches.

How can I diagnose the U1461 code on my Dodge?

Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and testing the ESM and TCM for proper operation.

Can a software update fix the U1461 code?

Yes, in some cases, a software update for the TCM or ESM may resolve communication issues if the problem is related to outdated software.

What should I check first when troubleshooting the U1461 code?

Start by inspecting the wiring harness and connectors for loose connections, corrosion, or damage between the ESM and TCM.

Is the U1461 code safe to ignore?

No, ignoring this code can lead to worsening transmission performance, unsafe driving conditions, and potential damage to the transmission system.

How much does it cost to repair the U1461 code?

Repair costs can vary depending on the issue, ranging from $100 for wiring repairs to $1,000 or more for ESM or TCM replacement.

Can driving in limp mode damage the transmission?

Driving in limp mode temporarily is generally safe, but prolonged use can put additional strain on the transmission and other components, potentially causing further damage.

Do I need to replace the ESM to fix the U1461 code?

Not always. The issue could be related to wiring, connectors, or software. Replacing the ESM should only be done after proper diagnosis confirms it is the source of the problem.