Code
U0029
Generic
U — Network/User
Vehicle Communication Bus A Performance
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Open, short, or high-resistance wiring on CAN A (CANH/CANL)
- Failed or intermittent module transceiver
- Missing or failed termination resistor(s)
- Corroded/loose connector or grounding issue
- Aftermarket device or shorted accessory loading the bus
- Intermittent power or battery voltage problems affecting modules
Symptoms
- Multiple communication-related DTCs or modules reporting 'no communication' or 'restricted communication'
- Illumination of MIL or multiple warning lamps
- Loss or intermittent operation of systems controlled via CAN A (ABS, traction, transmission, body functions, etc.)
- Modules present in scan tool intermittently or not at all
- Intermittent/erratic vehicle behavior tied to a specific subsystem
What to check
- Scan all modules and record all U-codes and any related P/C/B codes
- Visually inspect CAN A wiring, connectors and grounds for damage, corrosion, or contamination
- Measure CAN bus resistance between CANH and CANL with ignition off (expected ≈ 60 Ω with two 120 Ω terminators)
- Measure DC voltages on CANH and CANL with key on (recessive ≈ 2.5 V each; verify values are within manufacturer spec)
- Use an oscilloscope to view CANH/CANL waveforms for noise, missing dominant/recessive levels or incorrect bit timing
- Disconnect aftermarket accessories on the bus (alarm, audio, telematics) and recheck
Signal parameters
- Recessive: CANH ≈ 2.5 V, CANL ≈ 2.5 V (both lines near mid-supply)
- Dominant: CANH ≈ 3.5 V, CANL ≈ 1.5 V (approx. 2 V differential)
- Typical differential amplitude: ≈ 2.0 V
- Bus resistance (two terminators in parallel): ≈ 60 Ω (with ignition off and both terminators connected)
- Common bus bit rates: 125 kb/s, 250 kb/s, 500 kb/s (verify vehicle-specific baud rate)
Diagnostic algorithm
- Record all active and stored codes from all modules; note time/date and any freeze-frame data.
- Perform a visual inspection of CAN A wiring, connectors and module power/ground points for damage, moisture or loose pins.
- With ignition off, measure resistance between CANH and CANL at a convenient connector; expect ≈ 60 Ω (two 120 Ω terminators).
- With ignition ON (engine off), measure DC voltage on CANH and CANL relative to chassis ground to confirm recessive voltages (~2.5 V).
- Use an oscilloscope to view CANH and CANL while communicating with modules. Look for proper dominant/recessive levels, clean edges, correct bit timing and absence of excessive noise or stuck dominant bits.
- If bus voltage or waveform is out of spec, disconnect suspected modules (or remove aftermarket devices) one at a time and recheck to isolate the faulty module or wiring section.
- Repair/replace damaged wiring, connectors, transceivers or termination as required. Replace a faulty control module only after isolating it as the cause.
- Clear codes and re-test under conditions that reproduced the fault. Monitor for reoccurrence and verify all affected systems restore normal communication.
Likely causes
- Loose/corroded connector at a control module on CAN A
- Short to battery or ground on CANH or CANL from damaged wiring
- Failed CAN transceiver in a single module pulling the bus out of spec
- Missing 120 Ω termination or failed resistor causing improper bus impedance
- Aftermarket audio, alarm or telematics device interfering with the bus
Fault status
Status
Communication on Vehicle Communication Bus A is outside expected performance parameters. Messages are missing or corrupted, causing faults in one or more control modules.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.0 - 3.0 hours
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