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U0140 — CAN-Bus No Communication with CIM (Steering Column Module)

Detailed page for trouble code U0140.

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Code

U0140

OPEL U — Network/User

CAN-Bus No Communication with CIM (Steering Column Module)

Brand: OPEL
Views: UK: 7 EN: 15 RU: 35
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty or disconnected Steering Column Module (CIM)
  • Open, shorted or damaged CAN bus wiring between CIM and network
  • Corroded/loose connector pins at CIM or intermediate connectors
  • Blown fuse or loss of module power/ground
  • Failed CAN transceiver inside CIM or other module causing bus error
  • Missing or incorrect termination (open or shorted termination resistor)

Symptoms

  • Steering column functions (e.g., steering wheel controls, column stalks) not working
  • Instrument cluster or other modules show related errors or limp functionality
  • Multiple communication-related fault codes present
  • Certain driver-assist or convenience features inoperative
  • Possible loss of immobilizer/lock/unlock or key recognition features

What to check

  • Read and record all stored DTCs and freeze frame using a capable scan tool
  • Verify battery voltage and charging system stability (engine OFF and cranking)
  • Inspect fuses and relays related to the CIM power and ignition circuits
  • Visually inspect connectors at the steering column and nearby junctions for corrosion, bent pins or water ingress
  • Check that other modules on the same CAN network are present on the scanner
  • Measure CAN bus voltages at the CIM connector: CAN_H, CAN_L and differential

Signal parameters

  • CAN bus idle (recessive): CAN_H ≈ 2.5 V, CAN_L ≈ 2.5 V
  • CAN bus dominant: CAN_H ≈ 3.5 V, CAN_L ≈ 1.5 V (differential ≈ 2 V)
  • Termination resistor: ~60 Ω measured across CAN_H and CAN_L (two 120 Ω in parallel)
  • Network data rate depends on vehicle (commonly 500 kb/s or 250 kb/s for body networks)—verify vehicle specification
  • Expected: periodic messages/IDs from CIM visible on a capable bus monitor or oscilloscope

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Confirm code and scan for other U-codes. Note time stamps and related faults.
  2. Check battery voltage and main power fuses/relays for the CIM. Repair any power/ground issues.
  3. Perform visual inspection of steering column connector, harness, and any splice/junctions for damage or corrosion; repair as needed.
  4. With ignition ON, use a scan tool to check whether CIM appears on the network. If not present, proceed to physical checks.
  5. Measure CAN_H and CAN_L at the CIM connector. If voltages are shorted to battery or ground, trace and repair short.
  6. With vehicle power off, measure termination resistance across CAN_H and CAN_L at a convenient junction. Replace faulty termination or open circuits.
  7. If voltages and termination are correct, monitor the bus with oscilloscope or bus analyzer while cycling ignition and operating steering column controls to look for transients or missing frames.
  8. Disconnect other modules one at a time (if safe and practical) or isolate segments to identify if a different module is pulling the bus down.
  9. If wiring and bus integrity are good but CIM still not communicating, try reprogramming/rebooting the CIM per manufacturer procedure (if available) before replacing.
  10. If confirmed CIM hardware failure, replace module and reconfigure/program as required. Clear codes and verify repair by confirming normal CAN traffic and restoration of functions.

Likely causes

  • Loose or corroded connector at the steering column module
  • CAN_H or CAN_L short to ground or battery on the steering column harness
  • Damaged wiring harness between CIM and nearest gateway/module
  • Failed CIM transceiver or internal CIM failure
  • Blown fuse supplying power to CIM or missing ground

Fault status

⚠️ Status
No communication received from Steering Column Module (CIM) on CAN bus.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.5 - 3.0 hours

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