CAN network

U0130 — Lost Communication with Steering Effort Control Module

Severity: high Drive with care, to a shop

What U0130 means

One of the control modules on the CAN bus stopped receiving messages from the steering effort control module (the power steering or steering rack module) and stored U0130. This module normally adjusts steering assist based on speed and driving conditions. Without communication, assist may drop to a fallback mode or shut off.

Symptoms

  • Heavy or inconsistent steering effort
  • Steering or power steering warning light
  • Other warning lights may come on
  • Functions of the affected module are unavailable
  • Assist that cuts in and out while driving

Possible causes

  1. Failed power steering module or steering rack module
  2. Open, shorted or chafed CAN bus wiring
  3. Blown power steering fuse
  4. Corroded connectors or terminals
  5. Power supply or ground fault at the module
  6. Another faulty module pulling down the CAN bus
  7. Low system voltage from a weak battery or charging fault

How to diagnose

  1. Run a full-vehicle scan and map which modules are not communicating
  2. Test battery voltage and charging output
  3. Check the fuses and relays that power the steering system
  4. Inspect the module's harness and connectors for damage, moisture and corrosion
  5. Check power and ground at the module connector
  6. Measure CAN bus resistance and CAN-H/CAN-L voltages at the diagnostic connector
  7. Unplug suspect modules one at a time, only following a documented procedure
  8. Clear the code and see whether U0130 returns

Common fixes

  • Replace a blown fuse after finding what overloaded it
  • Repair or replace the damaged section of CAN wiring
  • Clean corroded contacts or replace damaged terminals and connectors
  • Restore the module's power and ground supply
  • Replace or reprogram the steering module or rack if it is confirmed faulty

Questions and answers

What does U0130 mean?

It means a control unit lost communication with the steering effort control module over the CAN bus. The cause can be the module itself, the wiring or its power supply.

Can I drive with U0130?

Only briefly and carefully. Power assist may shut off and make the steering very heavy, so get it diagnosed as soon as possible.

Can I just clear U0130?

You can clear it, but it will return if the fault is still present. Check fuses, power, grounds and CAN wiring first.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.