AutoCodes – Chevrolet – U1821 Chevrolet

U1821 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With 14V Power Module On Powertrain Expansion Communication Bus

Quick Answer

Devices connected to the powertrain high-speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty 14V Power Module, 14V Power Module harness is open or shorted, 14V Power 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
U1821 Chevrolet indicates Lost Communication With 14V Power Module On Powertrain Expansion Communication Bus.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty 14V Power Module, 14V Power Module harness is open or shorted, 14V Power 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 994
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 07, 2020
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Code U1821 Chevrolet Description

Devices connected to the powertrain high-speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the devices. The devices have prerecorded information about what messages are needed to be exchanged on the serial data circuits, for each virtual network. The messages are supervised and also, some periodic messages are used by the receiver device as an availability indication of the transmitter device. Each message contains the identification number of the transmitter device.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when a supervised periodic message that includes the transmitter device availability has not been received.
OBDII Code U1821 Chevrolet - Lost Communication With 14V Power Module On Powertrain Expansion Communication Bus - AutoCodes.com
U1821 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With 14V Power Module On Powertrain Expansion Communication Bus

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1821 Chevrolet?

  • Faulty 14V Power Module
  • 14V Power Module harness is open or shorted
  • 14V Power Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U1821 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 U1821 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 U1821 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the U1821 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U1821 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 U1821 Chevrolet Code

1. What does OBDII code U1821 mean on a Chevrolet?

U1821 indicates a loss of communication with the 14V Power Module on the Powertrain Expansion Communication Bus.

2. What are the common symptoms of code U1821 in a Chevrolet vehicle?

Symptoms may include a check engine light, reduced power mode, malfunctioning electrical systems, or difficulty starting the vehicle.

3. What causes the U1821 code to appear in a Chevrolet?

Common causes include a faulty 14V power module, damaged wiring or connectors, poor ground connections, or issues with the powertrain communication network.

4. Can a low battery voltage trigger the U1821 code on a Chevrolet?

Yes, low battery voltage or a failing alternator can disrupt communication and potentially trigger this code.

5. How can I fix the U1821 code on my Chevrolet?

Inspect the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, ensure proper grounding, check the 14V power module, and test the battery and alternator for proper operation.

6. Is it safe to drive with the U1821 code active in a Chevrolet?

Driving with this code may lead to reduced performance or additional electrical issues, so it's recommended to diagnose and repair the problem promptly.

7. How do I diagnose the U1821 code in a Chevrolet?

Use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect wiring and connectors, test the 14V power module, and verify proper communication on the Powertrain Expansion Bus.

8. Can a software update fix the U1821 code on a Chevrolet?

In some cases, a software update for the vehicle's control modules may resolve communication issues, but this depends on the specific circumstances.

9. Does the U1821 code mean the 14V power module needs replacement?

Not necessarily. The problem could be related to wiring, connectors, or other components. Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the root cause.

10. Can a blown fuse cause the U1821 code on a Chevrolet?

Yes, a blown fuse in the circuit related to the 14V power module can disrupt communication and trigger this code.

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