U0131 — Lost Communication with Power Steering Control Module
The Power Steering Control Module has stopped transmitting on the vehicle data bus, so other control units no longer receive its messages. Electric power steering can fail, requiring much higher steering effort. Typical causes are loss of power or ground at the module, an open or shorted CAN/LIN bus wire, a connector fault, or an internal module failure.
General code reference. Confirm the definition and diagnostic procedure for your vehicle's year, model and engine. A stored code alone does not identify a failed part.
Affected components
- Power steering module
- Can bus wiring
Possible causes to check
These are possible checks, not a ranked diagnosis. Follow the vehicle manufacturer's test procedure before replacing parts.
- EPS module unpowered (large fuse on battery)
- CAN wiring to EPS broken
- Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly
Possible symptoms
- Multiple warning lights may illuminate
- Affected modules may go into limp mode or shut down
- Specific functions inoperative depending on module
- Diagnostic tools may show communication faults
Diagnostic notes
- The malfunction indicator lamp may illuminate
Related codes
Sources
Check each reference's vehicle and model-year scope. General background links do not establish which fault is most likely on your vehicle.
Diagnostic information is provided for reference only. Confirm the code with a compatible scan tool and follow the vehicle manufacturer's service procedures before replacing components.