Code
U0515
Generic
U — Network/User
Invalid Data Received From Remote Function Actuation Module
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Faulty Remote Function Actuation (RFA) module
- Corroded/loose connector or pin at the RFA module
- Damaged wiring harness (shorts, opens, chafing) on power, ground or network wires
- Low or unstable battery/vehicle supply voltage
- CAN/LIN bus errors (noise, missing termination, wiring fault)
- Software/firmware mismatch or required reprogramming of the RFA module
Symptoms
- No response or intermittent response to remote lock/unlock/remote start functions
- Inoperative or erratic remote start or keyless entry functions
- Related modules display communication warnings or function limitations
- Illumination of the master warning light or info messages on the instrument cluster
- Stored network communication DTCs in other modules
What to check
- Scan vehicle and record all stored and pending U and B codes; capture freeze frame and data stream
- Check battery state-of-charge and system voltage (battery & charging)
- Visually inspect RFA module connector and wiring for corrosion, bent pins, or damage
- Check RFA module power and ground circuits for correct voltage and low resistance ground
- Check for related network codes (U0100, U0121, etc.) that identify bus-wide issues
- Using a scan tool, verify the RFA module is present on the network and attempt to communicate with it
Signal parameters
- Vehicle battery supply voltage to RFA module: approx. 12–14.5 V during normal operation
- Module ground resistance: close to 0 Ω (low resistance)
- Network message frequency for RFA messages: frequency and CAN IDs expected by OEM (capture with scanner/oscilloscope)
- CAN bus differential waveform: clean recessive and dominant states, no excessive noise or distortion
- Bus error counters and UDS/ISO-TP responses from the RFA module when queried
Diagnostic algorithm
- Retrieve all DTCs from all modules and note freeze frame data and times. Check for multiple U‑codes to determine if problem is isolated or bus‑wide.
- Verify battery voltage and charging system health. Low/unstable voltage can corrupt messages — ensure battery ≥12 V with engine off and charging system within spec with engine running.
- Visually inspect the RFA module connector and wiring harness. Repair any damage, push connectors fully home and check for bent pins or corrosion.
- With a scan tool, attempt to communicate with the RFA module and view live data/messages. Note if the module responds or times out.
- Check power and ground at the RFA module: verify constant and switched power circuits are present and ground has low resistance to chassis. Repair any power/ground faults.
- Inspect network (CAN/LIN) wiring for physical damage. Measure termination resistor(s) and check for wiring continuity and shorts between High/Low and to chassis.
- Capture CAN/LIN traffic with an oscilloscope or a capable scan tool while operating remote functions. Look for malformed frames, unexpected IDs, CRC errors, or excessive bus noise.
- Disconnect known aftermarket devices (alarms, repeaters, remote starters). Clear codes and attempt to reproduce. If codes do not return, investigate aftermarket device causes.
- If wiring and bus are good but invalid messages persist, check software/calibration levels and perform OEM‑recommended reprogramming of the RFA module or gateway if available.
- If after all electrical and software checks the module still transmits invalid data, replace the RFA module per OEM procedure and confirm repair by clearing codes and retesting functions.
Likely causes
- Poor ground or fused power feed to the RFA module
- Connector corrosion at the RFA or gateway module
- Network short to chassis or between CAN high/low wires
- Faulty RFA module firmware or calibration requiring reflash
- Aftermarket remote or amplifier injecting invalid messages on the bus
Fault status
Status
Invalid data or malformed message received from the Remote Function Actuation module on the vehicle network. Communication/data integrity fault detected; functions controlled by the RFA may be degraded.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.0 - 2.5 hours
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