U0151 high Severity

U0151: Lost Communication With Restraints Control Module

Airbag/SRS system may be disabled or malfunctioning; engine operation usually unaffected but safety compromised

Overview

U0151 diagnostic trouble code lost communication restraints control module CAN bus airbag SRS communication fault wiring connectors RCM

Common Symptoms

  • Airbag/SRS warning light illuminated
  • Seatbelt pretensioner warnings
  • Loss of communication with Restraints Control Module in scan tool
  • Possible chime or warning message on dash

Most Common Causes

Open or shorted CAN bus wiring between RCM and other modules high

Bus communication interruption is the primary cause across many vehicles

Loose, corroded or damaged connectors at the RCM high

Connector issues frequently reported in technician references

Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM) medium

Failure internal to the RCM can prevent proper communication

Power supply or ground issue to RCM medium

Loss of voltage or ground to module can mimic communication loss

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Use a professional scan tool to verify U0151 and check for additional communication-related codes
    Expected: Code U0151 present, possible related U-codes
    Interpretation: Confirmed communication fault; check network and related systems
  2. Inspect wiring harness and connectors at the Restraints Control Module for damage, corrosion or loose pins
    Expected: No physical damage or loose terminals
    Interpretation: If damage found, repair and retest communication
  3. Measure CAN High/Low signal continuity and resistance with multimeter
    Expected: Approximately 60 ohms across CAN High/Low with ignition off
    Interpretation: Deviations indicate network wiring issues
  4. Verify power and ground at the RCM connector
    Expected: Proper voltage and solid ground reference
    Interpretation: Incorrect supply suggests power/ground fault
  5. Attempt communication with RCM via scan tool
    Expected: Successful module response
    Interpretation: If no response post-wiring checks, RCM replacement may be necessary

Repair Solutions

Repair or replace damaged CAN bus wiring and connectors medium
Estimated Cost: $100 - $400

Labor and parts vary with vehicle

Clean and secure module connectors easy
Estimated Cost: $20 - $100

Simple connector service often resolves communication faults

Replace the Restraints Control Module (RCM) hard
Estimated Cost: $500 - $1500

Module cost and programming required; safety critical

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

  • Faulty instrument cluster or unrelated BCM communication fault misidentified as U0151

Frequently Asked Questions

Technical definition of U0151 OBD-II Code

When your OBD-II scanner reads U0151, it means: Lost Communication With Restraints Control Module. This code is related to the vehicle's Sensors.

How serious is the U0151 code?

With a severity level of high, airbag/SRS system may be disabled or malfunctioning; engine operation usually unaffected but safety compromised

What happens when the U0151 code is active?

You may experience the following: Airbag/SRS warning light illuminated, Seatbelt pretensioner warnings, Loss of communication with Restraints Control Module in scan tool.

What parts fail when U0151 is set?

The most common causes are: Open or shorted CAN bus wiring between RCM and other modules, Loose, corroded or damaged connectors at the RCM, Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM).

Is U0151 expensive to fix?

Expect to pay around $100 if the issue is a Clean and secure module connectors, but up to $1500 if the Replace the Restraints Control Module (RCM) needs replacement.

Does code U0151 apply to Jeep vehicles?

Yes, U0151 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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