U0126 medium Severity

U0126: Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor Module

Can disable stability control, ABS, and steering‑assist functions; steering feel may be altered or assist reduced

Overview

U0126 indicates a communication loss between the vehicle’s main control module and the steering angle sensor (SAS) module over the CAN bus, affecting ESC/ABS systems

Common Symptoms

  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
  • ABS and stability/ESC warning lights
  • Reduced or intermittent power steering assist
  • Steering feel abnormal or heavier than normal

Most Common Causes

Faulty steering angle sensor/module high

Internal electronics failure or module not responding on the CAN bus

Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors on CAN bus high

Wiring harness faults, loose pins, or corroded connections often interrupt communication

Poor power supply or ground to SAS module medium

Low battery voltage, bad ground, or blown fuse can interrupt module operation

CAN bus communication fault (short/open) medium

Open or shorted CAN high/low lines can prevent messages from transmitting

Software or module programming error low

ECU/SAS firmware bugs or incomplete reprogramming may cause intermittent faults

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Connect a professional OBD-II scan tool and read codes from all modules
    Expected: U0126 present and possibly related U-codes
    Interpretation: Presence of additional communication codes suggests broader CAN network issues
  2. Verify battery and charging system voltage
    Expected: 12.5V+ (off) and 13.5–14.5V (running)
    Interpretation: Low voltage indicates power supply issues that could cause communication dropout
  3. Visually inspect SAS module wiring and connectors
    Expected: No corrosion, secure pins, no insulation damage
    Interpretation: Corroded or loose connections likely interrupt CAN messaging
  4. Test CAN bus lines for continuity and proper resistance
    Expected: Approximately 60 ohms across CAN high/low
    Interpretation: Significant deviation indicates short/open fault in CAN wiring
  5. Attempt to communicate directly with the SAS module via scan tool
    Expected: Live data or module responsive
    Interpretation: No communication indicates faulty module or wiring power issue

Repair Solutions

Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors medium
Estimated Cost: $100 - $500

Properly secure connections and clean corrosion; gates and harness repairs vary by vehicle

Replace faulty steering angle sensor/module hard
Estimated Cost: $250 - $800

OEM sensor replacement may require calibration with diagnostic tool

Restore proper power/ground to SAS module (battery, fuses, grounds) easy
Estimated Cost: $20 - $150

Includes battery service, fuse replacement, ground cleaning

Reprogram or update module software hard
Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Dealer or advanced diagnostic tool may be required

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

  • Replacing SAS without checking wiring harness or power supply
  • Assuming steering rack/mechanical issue instead of electrical communication fault

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a U0126 diagnostic trouble code signify?

When your OBD-II scanner reads U0126, it means: Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor Module. This code is related to the vehicle's Sensors.

Can U0126 cause engine damage?

This is a medium priority issue. Can disable stability control, ABS, and steering‑assist functions; steering feel may be altered or assist reduced

What happens when the U0126 code is active?

You may experience the following: Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated, ABS and stability/ESC warning lights, Reduced or intermittent power steering assist.

What parts fail when U0126 is set?

The most common causes are: Faulty steering angle sensor/module, Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors on CAN bus, Poor power supply or ground to SAS module.

Is U0126 expensive to fix?

The cost varies significantly based on the root cause. For example, replacing a Restore proper power/ground to SAS module (battery, fuses, grounds) typically costs between $20 and $150, while fixing a Replace faulty steering angle sensor/module can range from $250 to $800.

Is the U0126 code specific to Honda?

Yes, U0126 is a generic code that applies to all OBD-II compliant vehicles, including Ford, Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet, Nissan, Dodge, BMW, and more.

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