Code
U046E
Generic
U — Network/User
Invalid Data Received From Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Corrupt or out-of-spec data transmitted by Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B
- Intermittent or failed CAN/LIN communication between modules
- Poor power or ground to Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B
- Damaged wiring harness, connector corrosion, bent pins, or broken wires
- Module software bug or configuration mismatch
- Faulty Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B hardware
Symptoms
- MIL (Check Engine) or warning indicator illuminated
- Reduced performance, limp-home mode, or emission-related limp strategies
- Missing or implausible exhaust sensor data on a scan tool (e.g., NaN, 0, max value)
- Stored U046E and possibly other network/communication U-codes
- Possible failed emissions test or incorrect catalyst/regeneration behavior
What to check
- Read all stored and pending DTCs from all modules; record freeze frame and live data
- Check for related network codes (U0100, U0155, U0415, etc.)
- Verify battery voltage (should be within normal operating range during checks)
- Visually inspect connectors and harness for corrosion, damage, or disconnection at Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B and related junctions
- Use a scan tool to view live data from Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B and verify update rate/values
- Check CAN/LIN bus physical layer: measure bus voltages and look for dominant/recessive levels and continuity to other modules
Signal parameters
- CAN/LIN message ID assigned to Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B (manufacturer-specific)
- Expected message frequency (typical module alive message every 50–500 ms)
- Data payload: sensor readings (exhaust gas concentration / temperature / sensor status) — values should be within physical ranges and not contain invalid flags
- Checksum/CRC or sequence counters if used by the module to validate packets
- Signal voltage levels: CANH/CANL differential behavior (dominant vs recessive) and bus termination presence
Diagnostic algorithm
- Confirm DTC: Clear codes and attempt to reproduce. Note whether code returns immediately or intermittently.
- Scan bus data: Using a capable scan tool, monitor Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B live data and message rate. Look for stale, repeating, invalid, or out-of-range values.
- Compare modules: Check the same parameters from Exhaust Gas Sensor Module A (if present) or other related modules to verify network-wide vs module-specific issue.
- Visual and power checks: With ignition off, disconnect the module connector and inspect pins for corrosion, bent pins, or water intrusion. With ignition on, verify module supply voltage and ground at the connector.
- Bus physical layer: Measure CANH/CANL voltages (key off and key on). With the bus active, verify proper idle voltages and that dominant/recessive states toggle when data is present. Check termination resistances.
- Wiggle test: With a data logger or scan tool monitoring, gently wiggle wiring near harnesses and connectors while observing for code set or data corruption to find intermittent faults.
- Substitute or reflash: If wiring and power/ground are good, check for available module software updates or recall bulletins. If still unresolved, consider replacing or bench-testing the exhaust gas sensor module B per manufacturer procedures.
- Re-test: After repair or replacement, clear codes and verify that valid messages are received consistently and related drivability/emissions behavior is normal.
Likely causes
- Connector or wiring damage (intermittent signal or shorts to power/ground)
- Module lost proper reference voltage/ground causing invalid outputs
- CAN bus errors (open, short, or termination issues) preventing valid frames
- Module firmware/configuration error after service or update
Fault status
Status
Invalid data received from Exhaust Gas Sensor Module B — data failed integrity or plausibility checks.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 0.5-2 hours
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