CAN network

U0160 — Lost Communication with Audible Alert Control Module

Severity: low Safe to drive

What U0160 means

One or more control modules stopped receiving data from the audible alert module, which runs the chimes and warning tones in the cabin. Modules normally exchange messages over the CAN bus, and when this one stops answering, U0160 is stored. The cause can be the module itself, its power or ground, or a wiring fault on the bus.

Symptoms

  • No warning chimes or tones
  • Turn signal clicking missing on some models
  • Several warning lamps may come on
  • Functions of the affected module unavailable
  • Other U-codes stored at the same time

Possible causes

  1. Failed audible alert module
  2. Open, shorted, or chafed CAN bus wiring
  3. Corroded connectors or terminals
  4. Power or ground fault at the module
  5. Another faulty module disrupting the bus
  6. Low battery voltage

How to diagnose

  1. Check battery voltage and terminal condition
  2. Run a full-module scan to map which modules are not responding
  3. Look for other U-codes that point to a shared cause on the bus
  4. Inspect the module's wiring and connectors for corrosion, moisture, and damage
  5. Check the module's power supply and grounds against the wiring diagram
  6. Measure CAN bus resistance and voltages at the diagnostic connector
  7. Disconnect suspect modules one at a time, only following a documented procedure
  8. Clear the code and see if it returns

Common fixes

  • Replace or reprogram the audible alert module
  • Repair the wiring harness or CAN bus fault
  • Clean or replace corroded connectors and terminals
  • Restore the module's power and ground
  • Replace a module that is disrupting the bus

Questions and answers

What does code U0160 mean?

It means communication was lost with the audible alert control module. Other modules get no response from it on the CAN bus.

Is it safe to drive with U0160?

Usually yes, but you may not hear warning tones. Watch the gauges and have it fixed in a reasonable time.

Why does U0160 show up with other U-codes?

The cause is often shared, such as a CAN bus, power, or ground problem. That makes several modules stop responding at once.

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.