AutoCodes – GMC – U1881 GMC

U1881 GMC Code - Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the class 2 and high-speed General Motor Local Area Network (GMLAN) serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Energy Storage Control Module (ESCM), Energy Storage Control Module harness is open or shorted, Energy Storage 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: U1881 GMC indicates Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Energy Storage Control Module (ESCM), Energy Storage Control Module harness is open or shorted, Energy Storage 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 558

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 08, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U1881 GMC Description

Modules connected to the class 2 and 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 modules. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is reported on a class 2 link to the scan tool by Powertrain Control Module (PCM) even if they may be set by different modules. The DTC will set when a node alive message has not been received from an identified module within the last 5 seconds after establishing class 2 serial data communication, or a supervised high-speed GMLAN message has not been received.

OBDII Code U1881 GMC - Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U1881 GMC Code - Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Module Lost Communication With Energy Storage Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1881 GMC?

Faulty Energy Storage Control Module (ESCM)
Energy Storage Control Module harness is open or shorted
Energy Storage Control Module circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) Module

How to Fix the DTC U1881 GMC?

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 U1881 GMC 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 U1881 GMC Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code U1881 in a GMC vehicle?

Common symptoms include loss of power steering assistance, warning lights on the dashboard, and difficulty steering the vehicle.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code U1881 in a GMC vehicle?

The code U1881 may be triggered by a faulty electro-hydraulic power steering module, issues with the energy storage control module, damaged wiring or connectors, or a communication error between the modules.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code U1881 in my GMC vehicle?

Diagnosing this code typically involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes, conducting a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors, and performing tests to check the communication between the modules.

4. Can I still drive my GMC vehicle with OBDII code U1881 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it may affect the power steering functionality and compromise the safety of driving.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code U1881 in a GMC vehicle?

Repair tips include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring proper connections between modules, and possibly replacing the electro-hydraulic power steering module or energy storage control module if necessary.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code U1881 in a GMC vehicle without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the code temporarily, it will likely reappear until the root cause of the communication error between the modules is addressed and resolved.

7. Do I need specialized tools to repair OBDII code U1881 in my GMC vehicle?

It is recommended to use professional OBDII diagnostic tools and possibly specialized equipment to accurately diagnose and repair the communication issue between the power steering and energy storage control modules.

8. Can extreme weather conditions contribute to triggering OBDII code U1881 in a GMC vehicle?

Yes, extreme temperatures or moisture exposure can potentially affect the electronic components and communication systems, leading to the activation of code U1881.

9. Is OBDII code U1881 specific to GMC vehicles only?

While the specific code U1881 may be manufacturer-specific to GMC vehicles, similar communication error codes related to power steering modules can be found in other vehicle makes and models.

10. How can regular maintenance help prevent OBDII code U1881 from occurring in a GMC vehicle?

Regular maintenance, including checking the condition of wiring, connectors, and modules, can help prevent issues that may trigger code U1881 and ensure the proper functioning of the power steering system.