AutoCodes – Generic – U1831

U1831 Code - Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus

Quick Answer

The serial data circuit is the means by which the devices in the vehicle communicate with each other. Common causes include Faulty Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module, Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module harness is open or shorted, Hybrid/EV Powertrain 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: U1831 indicates Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module, Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module harness is open or shorted, Hybrid/EV Powertrain 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 710

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 Jun 07, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U1831 Description

The serial data circuit is the means by which the devices in the vehicle communicate with each other. Once the scan tool is connected to the serial data circuit through the Data Link Connector (DLC), the scan tool can be used to monitor each device for diagnostic purposes and to check for Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). When the vehicle is ON, each device communicating on the serial data circuit sends a state of health message to ensure that the device is operating properly. When a device stops communicating on the serial data circuit, for example, if the device loses power or ground, the state of health message it normally sends on the serial data circuit disappears. Other devices on the serial data circuit, which expect to receive that state of the health message, detect its absence; those devices in turn set a DTC associated with the loss of the state of health of the non-communicating device. A loss of serial data communications DTC does not represent a failure of the devices that contain the stored DTC. The DTC will set when a supervised periodic message that includes the transmitter device availability has not been received.

OBDII Code U1831 - Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus - AutoCodes.com — U1831 Code - Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1831?

Faulty Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module
Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module harness is open or shorted
Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U1831?

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 U1831 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 U1831 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U1831 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U1831 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U1831 Buick — Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus
U1831 Cadillac — Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus
U1831 Chevrolet — Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus
U1831 GMC — Drive Motor Control Module 1 Lost Communication With Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module On Powertrain Expansion CAN Bus

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 U1831 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code U1831 related to the Drive Motor Control Module losing communication with the Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module?

The common symptoms include loss of power, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential stalling or rough idling of the vehicle.

2. What are possible causes of the U1831 code being triggered in a vehicle?

The code U1831 can be triggered due to issues such as damaged wiring, loose connections, faulty control modules, or a malfunction in the Hybrid/EV powertrain system.

3. How serious is the U1831 OBDII code related to communication loss between the Drive Motor Control Module and the Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module?

This code should be addressed promptly as it can affect the performance and drivability of the vehicle, especially if it involves the hybrid or electric powertrain components.

4. What are some diagnostic steps to identify the root cause of the U1831 trouble code?

Diagnosing the U1831 code may involve checking the wiring and connections between the control modules, testing the powertrain communication network, and scanning for any related trouble codes in the system.

5. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the U1831 code issue at home?

While basic checks like inspecting for loose connections can be done at home, diagnosing and repairing complex issues related to the U1831 code may require professional diagnostic tools and expertise.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with the U1831 trouble code present in the vehicle?

It is not recommended to continue driving with the U1831 code unresolved, as it may lead to further damage to the powertrain components and compromise the safety and performance of the vehicle.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the U1831 code issue at a professional auto repair shop?

The cost of repairing the U1831 code can vary depending on the underlying cause, but it may involve expenses for diagnostic labor, parts replacement, and system reprogramming.

8. Can a faulty Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module cause the U1831 trouble code to appear?

Yes, a malfunctioning Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module can lead to communication loss with the Drive Motor Control Module, triggering the U1831 trouble code.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance steps to avoid the U1831 trouble code in hybrid or electric vehicles?

Regularly inspecting and maintaining the hybrid or electric powertrain components, ensuring proper wiring connections, and following manufacturer-recommended service schedules can help prevent issues like the U1831 trouble code.

10. How long does it typically take to diagnose and repair the U1831 code issue in a vehicle?

The time taken to diagnose and repair the U1831 code can vary based on the complexity of the underlying problem, availability of parts, and the expertise of the technician, but it may range from a few hours to a day or more.