AutoCodes – Generic – U18B4

U18B4 Code - Lost Communication With Radio On Ethernet Bus

Quick Answer

At the core of the infotainment system is the Radio Ethernet Audio Video Bridging switch which communicates directly to each contributing Infotainment control module terminator. Common causes include Faulty Radio, Radio harness is open or shorted, Radio 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
U18B4 indicates Lost Communication With Radio On Ethernet Bus.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Radio, Radio harness is open or shorted, Radio 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 5,787
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 08, 2020
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Code U18B4 Description

At the core of the infotainment system is the Radio Ethernet Audio Video Bridging switch which communicates directly to each contributing Infotainment control module terminator. The Ethernet harness consists of twisted pair wires from point to point. Each control module on the Ethernet infotainment system sends/receives data at 100 Mbit/s to/from a specified port at the Radio. The Radio Ethernet will also be used to program USB software update files to the control modules connected to the Ethernet ports. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set a supervised periodic message that includes the transmitter device availability that has not been received.
OBDII Code U18B4 - Lost Communication With Radio On Ethernet Bus - AutoCodes.com
U18B4 Code - Lost Communication With Radio On Ethernet Bus

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U18B4?

  • Faulty Radio
  • Radio harness is open or shorted
  • Radio circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U18B4?

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 U18B4 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 U18B4 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the U18B4 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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 U18B4 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U18B4 "Lost Communication With Radio On Ethernet Bus"?

- Common symptoms include loss of audio or radio functionality, malfunctioning infotainment system, and possible issues with other electronic modules in the vehicle.

2. What are the possible causes of code U18B4?

- Possible causes include damaged wiring or connectors in the Ethernet bus network, a faulty radio unit, a defective control module, or software issues within the vehicle's communication system.

3. How can I diagnose the U18B4 trouble code?

- Diagnosing the U18B4 code involves using a diagnostic scanner to communicate with the vehicle's electronic control units, checking the integrity of the Ethernet bus network, and inspecting the radio unit and related components for any visible damage.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the U18B4 code?

- While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by DIY enthusiasts, repairing the U18B4 code often requires specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise in automotive electronics. It is recommended to seek professional assistance for accurate diagnosis and repair.

5. Are there any quick fixes for the U18B4 code?

- Quick fixes such as checking and resetting the radio unit or disconnecting the vehicle's battery to reset the system may temporarily resolve the communication issue. However, these are not permanent solutions and the underlying cause should be addressed to prevent the code from reoccurring.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with the U18B4 trouble code present?

- It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with the U18B4 code, especially if there are no other significant performance issues. However, it is recommended to have the code diagnosed and repaired at the earliest convenience to prevent potential complications with other vehicle systems.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the U18B4 code?

- The cost of repairing the U18B4 trouble code can vary depending on the underlying cause, the extent of the repairs needed, and labor rates in your area. It is advisable to obtain a few quotes from reputable automotive repair shops to compare costs.

8. Can a faulty radio unit cause code U18B4 to appear?

- Yes, a faulty radio unit can potentially cause the U18B4 trouble code to appear if it is unable to communicate properly on the Ethernet bus network. It is one of the components that should be inspected during diagnosis.

9. Will resetting the trouble codes make the U18B4 code disappear permanently?

- Resetting the trouble codes may temporarily clear the U18B4 code, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear once the vehicle's communication system detects the fault again.

10. How long does it typically take to diagnose and repair the U18B4 code?

- The time required to diagnose and repair the U18B4 code can vary depending on the complexity of the issue, availability of parts, and the expertise of the technician. In some cases, diagnosis and repair can be completed within a few hours, while more intricate problems may take longer to resolve.

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