Home / DTC / U1136 — SCP (J1850) Invalid or Missing Data for Telltales

U1136 — SCP (J1850) Invalid or Missing Data for Telltales

Detailed page for trouble code U1136.

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Code

U1136

Other U — Network/User

SCP (J1850) Invalid or Missing Data for Telltales

Brand: Other
AI status
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Open, short, or intermittent wiring on the SCP/J1850 data line
  • Poor or corroded connector or pin at instrument cluster, BCM, or sending modules
  • Faulty instrument cluster or body control module (BCM)
  • Low or unstable battery/charging system voltage during communication
  • Missing or corrupt module software (firmware) or configuration mismatch
  • Improper bus termination or grounding issue

Symptoms

  • Certain dash telltales (turn, ABS, airbag, check engine, etc.) not illuminated, stuck on, or behaving erratically
  • Instrument cluster displays incorrect or missing warning lights
  • Multiple network-related U-codes present
  • Intermittent or permanent loss of related vehicle functions controlled by modules on the SCP/J1850 bus

What to check

  • Verify battery voltage and charging system (battery fully charged, >12.4 V at key off; >13.5 V with engine running)
  • Scan all modules and record additional U-codes and freeze-frame data
  • Inspect connectors and wiring at instrument cluster, BCM and other modules for damage, corrosion, or loose pins
  • Check for poor or missing ground connections for BCM and instrument cluster
  • Look for signs of water intrusion or physical damage in affected harnesses
  • Compare module software/calibration levels with manufacturer specifications (TIS update may be required)

Signal parameters

  • Data bus should show regular message activity when key on/engine running (varies by vehicle and protocol)
  • Idle/bus voltage and dominant/recessive levels depend on protocol; look for clean, repeatable waveform without excessive noise or dropouts
  • Telltale messages are typically periodic status messages—absence or corrupted frames indicate a communication problem
  • Multiple nodes should not transmit identical message IDs simultaneously (bus arbitration issues indicate faulty module)

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Verify and record battery and charging voltages. Recharge battery or repair charging faults if needed, then retest.
  2. Use a capable scan tool to read all U-codes and module status. Note any modules that fail to respond.
  3. Visual inspection of connectors and wiring at instrument cluster, BCM and associated modules; repair damaged wires or pins and clean corroded connectors.
  4. Wiggle-test the harness while monitoring the bus with a scan tool/oscilloscope to reproduce the fault (check for intermittent opens/shorts).
  5. Back-probe the data line at the BCM and cluster; observe waveform and message traffic. Compare to known-good signals or specs.
  6. If a single module is not responding or is transmitting corrupted data, try re-seating its connector and clearing codes. If persistent, consider module reflash or replacement per manufacturer procedures.
  7. After repairs, clear codes and verify telltales function through all modes and that U1136 does not return. Road test and re-scan.

Likely causes

  • Damaged data bus wiring or connector between BCM and instrument cluster
  • Failed BCM or instrument cluster interrupting telltale messages
  • Battery voltage low or charging system problem causing communication errors
  • Corrosion at a pin/ground causing intermittent open/short on the bus

Fault status

⚠️ Status
SCP (J1850) — Invalid or missing telltale data reported on the vehicle network. Instrument cluster or BCM messages for telltales are absent or corrupt.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0 - 3.0 hours

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