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Overview

U0167 indicates a CAN bus communication failure between the vehicle’s main computer (ECM/PCM) and the immobilizer control module, typically resulting in lost anti‑theft/security communication and possible no‑start conditions

Common Symptoms

Security or immobilizer warning light illuminated on dashboard
Engine cranks but won’t start
Intermittent starting or no‑start condition
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) on

Most Common Causes

Open or short in CAN bus communication circuits between ECM/PCM and immobilizer module high

Communication network faults are frequently reported in professional diagnostic references

Loss of power or ground to the immobilizer control module high

Loss of supply or grounding interrupts module functioning and communication

Damaged wiring harness or corroded connectors medium

Environmental damage and connector corrosion common in real‑world cases

Faulty immobilizer control module medium

Internal module failure less common but reported as cause when wiring and power verified good

Faulty ECM/PCM internal fault low

Occasionally the main computer itself can cause U0167 if its internal communication interface fails

Diagnostic Steps

Use a professional scan tool to verify presence of U0167 and note any companion codes

Expected: U0167 code present, possibly with other network related codes

Interpretation: Confirms communication issue; companion codes may point to specific circuits
Inspect fuses, power, and ground circuits for the immobilizer control module

Expected: Battery voltage present at module power pin; solid ground continuity

Interpretation: Lack of proper power/ground suggests supply circuit issue
Visually inspect CAN bus wiring and connectors between ECM/PCM and immobilizer module

Expected: No broken wires, no corroded or damaged connectors

Interpretation: Visible damage would indicate wiring repair required
Perform communication test with scan tool by attempting to communicate with immobilizer module

Expected: Module responds and shares data

Interpretation: No response indicates network fault or module failure
If diagnostics pass wiring and communication tests but fault persists, consult manufacturer OEM procedures for module re‑programming or replacement

Expected: Re‑programmed module communicates correctly

Interpretation: Resolves issues caused by corrupted software or defective module

Repair Solutions

Repair or replace damaged wiring/connector on CAN bus medium

Estimated Cost: $100 - $400

Cost depends on extent of wiring damage

Restore proper power and ground to immobilizer module (fuse/ground repair) easy

Estimated Cost: $20 - $150

Often quick fix if supply circuit issue

Re‑program immobilizer control module or ECM/PCM medium

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Requires OEM‑level tooling

Replace immobilizer control module with VIN‑matched unit hard

Estimated Cost: $600 - $1200

Includes programming; necessary when module failure confirmed

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

Incorrectly assuming U0167 relates to body control module (BCM) communication on all vehicles

Frequently Asked Questions

Technical definition of U0167 OBD-II Code

The U0167 code stands for Lost Communication With Vehicle Immobilizer Control Module. This generally indicates an issue with the Sensors system.

Can U0167 cause engine damage?

The U0167 code is considered high severity. May prevent vehicle from starting or cause intermittent no‑start conditions due to anti‑theft immobilizer communication failure

Common signs of the U0167 error code

You may experience the following: Security or immobilizer warning light illuminated on dashboard, Engine cranks but won’t start, Intermittent starting or no‑start condition.

What causes the U0167 code?

This code is frequently triggered by: Open or short in CAN bus communication circuits between ECM/PCM and immobilizer module, Loss of power or ground to the immobilizer control module, Damaged wiring harness or corroded connectors.

Is U0167 expensive to fix?

The cost varies significantly based on the root cause. For example, replacing a Restore proper power and ground to immobilizer module (fuse/ground repair) typically costs between $20 and $150, while fixing a Replace immobilizer control module with VIN‑matched unit can range from $600 to $1200.

Does code U0167 apply to Ford vehicles?

The U0167 code is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to almost all makes and models, such as Honda, Toyota, VW, Ford, and Chevy.

U0167: Lost Communication With Vehicle Immobilizer Control Module