AutoCodes – Buick – U216A Buick

U216A Buick Code - Lost Communication With Front Object Detection Control Module

Quick Answer

Devices connected to the serial data circuits monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Front Object Detection Control Module, Front Object Detection Control Module harness is open or shorted, Front Object Detection 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: U216A Buick indicates Lost Communication With Front Object Detection Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Front Object Detection Control Module, Front Object Detection Control Module harness is open or shorted, Front Object Detection 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 1,025

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 15, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U216A 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 U216A Buick - Lost Communication With Front Object Detection Control Module - AutoCodes.com — U216A Buick Code - Lost Communication With Front Object Detection Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U216A Buick?

Faulty Front Object Detection Control Module
Front Object Detection Control Module harness is open or shorted
Front Object Detection Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U216A 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 U216A 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 U216A Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code U216A mean on a Buick?

The code U216A indicates a "Lost Communication With Front Object Detection Control Module," meaning the vehicle's systems are unable to communicate with this module.

2. What are the common symptoms of the U216A code?

Symptoms may include a malfunctioning or inoperative front collision warning system, trouble with adaptive cruise control, warning lights on the dashboard, or general ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) issues.

3. What causes the U216A code to appear on a Buick?

Common causes include wiring issues, a faulty front object detection control module, software glitches, or a loss of power or ground to the module.

4. Can a dead battery trigger the U216A code?

Yes, a weak or dead battery, or voltage fluctuations, can disrupt communication with the control module and trigger this code.

5. How can I diagnose the U216A code on my Buick?

Start by checking for loose or damaged wiring, inspecting module connectors, verifying the moduleâ€™s power and ground, and using a scan tool to check for related codes.

6. Is the U216A code serious?

While it may not impact basic drivability, it can disable safety features like collision warnings and adaptive cruise control, which should be addressed promptly.

7. Can I drive my Buick with the U216A code?

You can drive the vehicle, but critical safety and driver-assist features may not function properly, increasing the risk of accidents.

8. How is the U216A code fixed?

Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, reconnecting loose connectors, updating software for the control module, or replacing the module if itâ€™s faulty.

9. Can the U216A code clear itself?

In some cases, a temporary communication issue may resolve itself, but if the underlying problem persists, the code will remain or return.

10. Do I need a professional to fix the U216A code?

While some basic diagnostics can be done at home, a professional mechanic with advanced tools may be needed to test the module and ensure proper repairs.