Code
U2620
Generic
U — Network/User
Invalid Encryption Key Length
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Control module configured to use a different encryption key size than other nodes
- Corrupt or truncated encryption key stored in an ECU or secure element
- Incomplete or failed programming / calibration update
- Diagnostic tool or tester using incorrect security parameters
- Aftermarket or replacement module with incompatible security settings
- Message framing or network corruption causing incorrect length field
Symptoms
- Secure diagnostic sessions fail or cannot be established
- Feature(s) requiring authenticated communication are inoperative
- Intermittent or permanent communication faults with affected module
- Service tool reports authentication or security errors
- Related U-codes or communication DTCs stored (loss of secure comm)
What to check
- Read and record full DTC text and any freeze-frame or extended data
- Verify software/calibration part numbers of involved ECUs and gateway
- Confirm diagnostic tool supports the vehicle's security protocol and has latest software
- Capture raw network traffic (CAN/CAN-FD/DoIP) during authentication to view key-length field
- Check for recent programming, module replacement, or aftermarket devices
- Inspect wiring, connectors, and ground integrity for the affected modules
Signal parameters
- Security/authentication message: reported key length field (bytes or bits)
- Expected key length per ECU calibration or security manager
- Authentication result/status (success/failure codes)
- Message ID / source and destination ECU IDs
- Session type (diagnostic, transport/session initiation)
- Timestamp and message sequence/rolling counter
Diagnostic algorithm
- Record the DTC, any freeze frame and related U-codes. Note module IDs and software versions.
- Attempt to recreate the fault: start a secure diagnostic session and capture raw network frames with a CAN/CAN-FD/DoIP logger to confirm the reported key length value.
- Compare the captured key length field with the expected key length from service documentation or ECU calibration.
- Verify diagnostic tool settings and update tool firmware; retry authentication using a known-good OEM tool if available.
- Check recent service history for programming, module replacement or aftermarket installation; if present, confirm correct programming procedure was used.
- If key length differs due to software mismatch, update/reflash the affected ECU(s) to the correct calibration/software per manufacturer procedure.
- If data in ECU NVM appears corrupted, perform recommended reprogram/recover sequence (follow OEM security access and reflash procedures).
- If message truncation or bus errors were observed, diagnose network health (termination, wiring, ground, CAN transceivers) and repair as needed, then retest authentication.
- After corrective action, clear codes and verify stable secure communications over multiple ignition cycles and drive conditions.
- If the module still reports an invalid key length after correct software and healthy bus, consult manufacturer security documentation and consider module replacement or return to supplier.
Likely causes
- Software/calibration mismatch between master security manager and subordinate ECU (expected key length differs)
- Failed or interrupted ECU reflash left an invalid key in NVM
- Third-party module installed that doesn't support vehicle security key size
- Diagnostic tool set to wrong security protocol (bit length/algorithm) when requesting access
- Network noise or bus errors truncated the security message length field
Fault status
Status
Invalid Encryption Key Length — Received key length (reported) does not match expected key length for secure session; authentication aborted.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 0.5-2.0 hours
Similar codes
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