U1170 – SCP (J1850) Invalid or Missing Data for Cellular Phone / Paging System

The ODBII code U1170 SCP (J1850) indicates that there is invalid or missing data related to the cellular phone or paging system in the vehicle’s communication network.

The severity of ODBII code U1170 is generally considered moderate.

Common Causes For: U1169 U1169: “Module Communication Failure”

• Faulty or disconnected wiring harness
• Malfunctioning cellular phone or paging system
• Poor or corroded connections
• Failed control module
• Software issues or bugs in the control module
• Interference from other electronic devices
• Low battery voltage or power supply issues
• Faulty sensors or components related to the system

Common misdiagnosis for U1170 SCP (J1850) Invalid or Missing Data for Cellular Phone / Paging System

• Faulty cellular phone or paging system
• Wiring issues or damaged connectors
• Faulty body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly programmed or incompatible modules
• Software glitches or outdated firmware
• Issues with the vehicle’s communication network (CAN bus)
• Faulty or weak battery affecting module performance
• Interference from aftermarket devices or accessories

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with OBD-II code U1170, which indicates “Invalid or Missing Data for Cellular Phone / Paging System,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Check for Additional Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other trouble codes that may be present. Sometimes, multiple codes can provide more context for the issue.
• Inspect Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Check the wiring and connectors related to the cellular phone/paging system. Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• **Connector Pins: Ensure that the pins in the connectors are not bent or corroded.
• Check the Cellular Phone/Paging System: **Functionality: Verify that the cellular phone or paging system is functioning correctly. If it’s an aftermarket system, ensure it’s compatible with the vehicle.
• **Reset the System: If applicable, try resetting the cellular phone/paging system to see if that resolves the issue.
• Inspect the Module: **Cellular Module: If the vehicle has a dedicated module for the cellular phone/paging system, check its operation. This may involve testing the module or replacing it if it’s found to be faulty.
• Check for Software Updates: **ECU Updates: Check if there are any software updates available for the vehicle’s ECU or the cellular phone/paging system. Sometimes, manufacturers release updates to fix bugs or improve compatibility.
• Battery and Ground Connections: **Battery Voltage: Ensure that the vehicle’s battery is in good condition and fully charged. Low voltage can cause communication issues.
• **Ground Connections: Check all ground connections related to the cellular system and the vehicle’s ECU. Poor grounding can lead to communication errors.
• Perform a Hard Reset: Disconnect the vehicle’s battery for a few minutes to reset the ECU. Reconnect and see if the code reappears.
• Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Look for any TSBs related to the U1170 code for your specific vehicle make and model. Manufacturers may have specific recommendations or known issues.
• Professional Diagnosis: If the issue persists after performing the above steps, consider taking the vehicle to a professional mechanic or dealership. They may have specialized diagnostic tools and knowledge to address the issue more effectively.
• Document Findings: Keep a record of any changes made, codes cleared, and observations during the troubleshooting process. This information can be helpful for future reference or if you need to consult a professional. By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the U1170 code and take appropriate action to resolve it.