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U0073

Control Module Communication Bus "A" Off

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By
KBB Service Advisor
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Reviewed by
Gary Hardesty

What Is the U0073 Code?

Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
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The U0073 code is a generic trouble code that indicates an issue with communication. This diagnostic code can trigger in a number of different control modules, and it indicates that there’s a problem within the CAN bus (controller area network) in bus “A.” This code is generally very vague and just indicates that there’s a communication problem of some kind.

More About the U0073 Code

The way communication works within your car is that data transmits from one module to another bit by bit. However, if there’s a problem with the way two modules are communicating, you may experience this code. The “A” part of the code indicates the specific bus that the modules are using to communicate, which, depending on the manufacturer, can refer to CAN High or CAN Low. This may indicate either that the communication is inefficient, that the communication is inconsistent, or that the communication has completely stopped; because the code is so general, it’s impossible to know which is the case until you start looking into it.

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What Are the Symptoms of a U0073 Code?

The top symptom that you’ll typically experience with the U0073 code is that the check engine light will be illuminated. Aside from that, you can see all sorts of symptoms, ranging from less-obvious problems like reduced fuel economy or general loss of engine power to much more obvious problems like a complete no-start condition or even a no-crank condition. That means this code might cause very serious problems with driving ability or much less serious problems. Either way, it’s still important to fix the problem as quickly as possible.

What Are Some Causes of a U0073 Code?

The U0073 code will typically be caused by an issue within the wiring or software. It may be an issue with one of your control modules, an issue with the data network, or even an issue with damaged wiring or connection wires as a whole. If you’re experiencing this problem, it’s because there’s an issue with communication, and the most common reasons for that have to do with wiring concerns.

How Serious Is the U0073 Code?

The seriousness of the U0073 code has to do with the symptoms. However, because these symptoms can basically arise at any time, it’s best to treat it as though it’s serious enough that it will cause the car to enter a no-start or no-crank situation at any time. The faster you fix this code, the more likely that you’ll get out of it without any lasting problems.

Can I Still Drive with a U0073 Code?

Although in many situations you can technically still drive when your car is throwing a U0073 code, it’s best to avoid doing so. This code may be triggered when losing communication intermittently, which means that the car still generally works, but certain elements of it aren’t available. However, if it loses communication entirely, you are at risk of being stranded once you turn off your car. It’s best to get your car in to an expert if possible.

How Easy Is It to Diagnose a U0073 Code?

The U0073 code is a fairly generalized code; it simply indicates that your control modules are not communicating properly. The reason for this lack of communication can be all sorts of things, and it’s very challenging to isolate the actual concern and fix it. If you’re experiencing this code with your car, then it’s typically best to avoid trying to DIY a fix and instead leave the problem up to the experts.

How Difficult Is It to Inspect a U0073 Code?

The inspection process is also typically very difficult. One of the biggest reasons for this is the fact that different vehicles will need different diagnostics and repair steps. Depending on your manufacturer and even your car’s make and model, you might need to change the way you go through the inspection. This, combined with the fact that the diagnosis itself is often very complicated, indicates that you should leave these problems up to an expert.

Need Additional Help with Your U0073 Code?

The U0073 code can create a wide variety of symptoms, and if you’re experiencing these problems, you need to get them fixed as quickly as possible. It’s important that you have an expert on hand in case you’re experiencing a serious issue, so you can get your car back to functioning normally as quickly as possible.

With Kelley’s help, you can find the best repair shops near you, which can help you get your car in to an expert as quickly as possible. No matter what issues you’re experiencing, these repair shops are a great starting point.

If you want to learn more about OBD-II diagnostic codes, then you can also check the KBB OBD-II database. This database can help you understand more about diagnostic codes your car might be throwing.

U0073 Q&A

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