AutoCodes – Buick – U2138 Buick

U2138 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Steering Column Lock Control Module

Quick Answer

Devices connected to the serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Steering Column Lock Control Module (SCLCM), Steering Column Lock Control Module harness is open or shorted, Steering Column Lock 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: U2138 Buick indicates Lost Communication With Steering Column Lock Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Column Lock Control Module (SCLCM), Steering Column Lock Control Module harness is open or shorted, Steering Column Lock 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 485

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 U2138 Buick 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 U2138 Buick - Lost Communication With Steering Column Lock Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U2138 Buick Code - Lost Communication With Steering Column Lock Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U2138 Buick?

Faulty Steering Column Lock Control Module (SCLCM)
Steering Column Lock Control Module harness is open or shorted
Steering Column Lock Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U2138 Buick?

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 U2138 Buick 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 U2138 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code U2138 mean on a Buick?

The U2138 code indicates a loss of communication with the Steering Column Lock Control Module, which is responsible for the electronic locking of the steering column.

2. What are the common symptoms of code U2138 on a Buick?

Symptoms may include a failure of the steering column to unlock, the engine not starting, warning lights on the dashboard, or intermittent communication issues.

3. What causes code U2138 on a Buick?

This code can be caused by a faulty Steering Column Lock Control Module, wiring issues, poor electrical connections, or a failure in the CAN bus communication system.

4. Can a bad battery cause code U2138 on a Buick?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause communication issues between modules, potentially triggering the U2138 code.

5. How do you diagnose code U2138 on a Buick?

Diagnosis involves scanning for additional codes, visually inspecting the wiring and connectors, and testing the communication signals on the CAN bus system.

6. Can I drive my Buick with a U2138 code?

Driving may be possible if the steering column unlocks and the engine starts, but itâ€™s not recommended as it could lead to further issues or leave you stranded.

7. How do you fix code U2138 on a Buick?

Repairs may involve repairing or replacing the Steering Column Lock Control Module, fixing damaged wiring, or addressing CAN bus system faults.

8. Is reprogramming necessary to fix code U2138 on a Buick?

In some cases, reprogramming or reinitializing the module with a scan tool may be necessary after repairs to ensure proper communication.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot code U2138 on a Buick?

Youâ€™ll need an OBDII scanner capable of reading manufacturer-specific codes, a multimeter to test electrical connections, and possibly an oscilloscope to check CAN bus signals.

10. How much does it cost to fix code U2138 on a Buick?

The cost can vary depending on the cause, ranging from $100 for minor wiring repairs to over $500 if the Steering Column Lock Control Module needs replacement.