AutoCodes – Cadillac – U2146 Cadillac

U2146 Cadillac 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 Cadillac 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 488

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U2146 Cadillac?

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 Cadillac?

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 Cadillac 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 U2146 Cadillac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U2146 in a Cadillac indicating a lost communication with the shift lever module?

- Common symptoms include the inability to shift gears, the gear indicator not displaying correctly, and the vehicle going into limp mode.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code U2146 in a Cadillac?

- The code U2146 can be caused by issues such as a faulty shift lever module, damaged wiring or connectors, or a communication error within the vehicle's network.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code U2146 in my Cadillac?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code, checking for any related codes, and testing the shift lever module, wiring, and communication lines for faults.

4. Is it safe to drive my Cadillac with OBDII code U2146 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to potential safety hazards due to the loss of proper communication with the shift lever module.

5. How can I repair OBDII code U2146 in my Cadillac?

- Repair options may include replacing the faulty shift lever module, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, and ensuring proper communication between the module and other vehicle systems.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code U2146 in a Cadillac?

- While some basic troubleshooting steps can be taken by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing this code may require specialized tools and expertise, so it is best to consult a professional mechanic.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code U2146 in my Cadillac make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the error, but if the underlying issue causing the lost communication with the shift lever module is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

8. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code U2146 in a Cadillac?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to diagnose and fix the problem.

9. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code U2146 in a Cadillac?

- Regular maintenance checks, including inspecting wiring harnesses and connectors, can help prevent issues that may lead to the U2146 code in a Cadillac.

10. Can a Cadillac dealership assist with diagnosing and repairing OBDII code U2146?

- Yes, authorized Cadillac dealerships have the necessary tools, expertise, and access to manufacturer-specific information to effectively diagnose and repair OBDII code U2146 in your vehicle.