This code indicates that the main computer network has lost contact with the heated steering wheel control module. It means the module that manages the steering wheel heater is no longer sending or receiving data over the vehicle's communication bus. As a result, the heated steering wheel feature will not function.
Open circuits, shorts, or corroded terminals in the steering column or clock spring are the most frequent causes, disrupting the communication network.
The internal circuitry of the module itself can fail, preventing it from waking up or communicating on the data bus.
A fault in the shared communication wires, such as a short to power or ground, can isolate the steering wheel module from the rest of the network.
The BCM often governs this submodule, and an internal BCM fault could prevent it from establishing communication, though this is less common.
A failure of the Powertrain Control Module is highly unlikely to cause this specific code and should only be considered as an absolute last resort.
Yes, the vehicle is safe to drive, but the heated steering wheel feature will be disabled until the communication issue is resolved.
Yes, the clock spring allows the steering wheel to rotate while maintaining electrical connections, making its internal wiring highly susceptible to wear and breakage over time.
Almost never. Drivers are sometimes told to replace the PCM for this code, but that is usually incorrect. The problem is almost always a wiring issue, a clock spring failure, or a fault with the heated steering wheel module itself.
Yes, low system voltage can cause modules to drop off the communication network temporarily, triggering false U-codes. Always verify battery condition and charging system health before replacing components.