AutoCodes – Generic – U2116

U2116 Code - Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster

Quick Answer

Devices connected to the serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC), Instrument Panel Cluster harness is open or shorted, Instrument Panel Cluster 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: U2116 indicates Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC), Instrument Panel Cluster harness is open or shorted, Instrument Panel Cluster 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 11,530

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 16, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U2116 Description

Devices connected to the 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. A loss of serial data communications Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) does not represent a failure of the devices that contain the stored code. The DTC will set when a supervised periodic message that includes the transmitter device availability has not been received.

OBDII Code U2116 - Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster - AutoCodes.com — U2116 Code - Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U2116?

Faulty Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC)
Instrument Panel Cluster harness is open or shorted
Instrument Panel Cluster circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U2116?

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 U2116 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 U2116 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U2116 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U2116 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U2116 Buick — Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster
U2116 Cadillac — Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster
U2116 Chevrolet — Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster
U2116 GMC — Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster

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 U2116 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U2116, Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster?

- Common symptoms include loss of communication with the instrument panel cluster, malfunctioning gauges and warning lights, and issues with the vehicle's display screen.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code U2116?

- The code U2116 can be caused by a faulty instrument panel cluster, damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code U2116?

- Diagnosis typically involves checking the instrument cluster for power and ground, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and using a diagnostic scanner to communicate with the vehicle's modules.

4. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code U2116 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with code U2116 present, as it may affect the proper functioning of critical vehicle systems and lead to potential safety hazards.

5. Can I repair OBDII code U2116 myself?

- Depending on your expertise level, you may be able to repair code U2116 yourself by checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a faulty instrument panel cluster.

6. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code U2116?

- The cost of fixing code U2116 can vary depending on the root cause of the issue. Repairs may range from a simple fuse replacement to a more complex instrument cluster replacement, with costs varying accordingly.

7. Are there any temporary fixes for OBDII code U2116?

- Temporary fixes for code U2116 are not recommended, as the underlying issue should be properly diagnosed and repaired to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.

8. Can weather conditions impact the occurrence of OBDII code U2116?

- Extreme weather conditions, such as temperature fluctuations or moisture exposure, can potentially impact the occurrence of code U2116 by affecting the electrical connections and components involved.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code U2116?

- The repair time for code U2116 can vary based on the complexity of the issue and the availability of parts. It may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to diagnose and repair the problem.

10. Will resetting the OBDII system clear code U2116?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but it is likely to reappear if the underlying issue causing the communication loss with the instrument panel cluster is not addressed.