AutoCodes – Generic – U2146

U2146 Code - Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module

Quick Answer

Devices connected to the serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Shift Lever Module (SLM), Shift Lever Module harness is open or shorted, Shift Lever 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: U2146 indicates Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Shift Lever Module (SLM), Shift Lever Module harness is open or shorted, Shift Lever 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 900

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 U2146 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 U2146 - Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module - AutoCodes.com — U2146 Code - Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U2146?

Faulty Shift Lever Module (SLM)
Shift Lever Module harness is open or shorted
Shift Lever Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U2146?

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 U2146 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 U2146 code?

Need more information on how to fix the U2146 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U2146 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

U2146 Buick — Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module
U2146 Cadillac — Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module
U2146 Chevrolet — Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module
U2146 GMC — Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module
U2146 Pontiac — Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module
U2146 Saturn — Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module

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 U2146 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U2146 (Lost Communication With Shift Lever Module)?

- Common symptoms include issues with shifting gears, erratic shifting, and the inability to shift gears at all.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code U2146?

- Possible causes include a faulty shift lever module, damaged wiring or connectors, software issues, or a communication network problem.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code U2146?

- Diagnosing the issue may involve checking the wiring and connectors for damage, verifying the shift lever module's functionality, and using a diagnostic scanner to communicate with the module.

4. Can I continue driving my vehicle with OBDII code U2146 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving your vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to further transmission issues and potential safety hazards.

5. How can I repair OBDII code U2146 at home?

- Repairing this code may require checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, resetting the shift lever module, or updating the module's software if applicable.

6. Should I seek professional help to diagnose and repair OBDII code U2146?

- It is advisable to seek professional help, especially if you are not familiar with automotive diagnostics and repairs, as the issue may require specialized tools and expertise.

7. Can a software update fix OBDII code U2146?

- In some cases, a software update provided by the vehicle manufacturer may resolve communication issues causing this code.

8. Is OBDII code U2146 specific to certain vehicle makes and models?

- This code can be found in various vehicle makes and models that are equipped with OBDII systems and electronic shift lever modules.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid encountering OBDII code U2146 in the future?

- Regular maintenance checks, avoiding water damage to the vehicle's electronics, and ensuring proper wiring connections can help prevent issues leading to this code.

10. Can OBDII code U2146 be intermittent or permanent?

- This code can be intermittent, occurring sporadically, or permanent, staying present until the underlying issue is resolved.