U1655 – Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module.

The ODBII code U1655 indicates a loss of communication between the vehicle’s control module and the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) control module, suggesting a potential issue with wiring, connectors, or the IPC itself.

The severity of ODBII code U1655 is generally considered moderate to severe.

Common Causes For: U1654 Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module.

• Faulty Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Poor ground connections
• Faulty communication network (CAN bus issues)
• Corroded terminals
• Software or firmware issues
• Blown fuses related to the IPC
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnosis for U1655 Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module.

• Faulty Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC)
• Wiring issues or shorts in the communication lines
• Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
• Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
• Corrupted software or firmware in the IPC or BCM
• Battery or charging system issues
• Grounding problems
• Faulty connectors or terminals
• Issues with the CAN bus system
• Other communication-related DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes)

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with the OBD-II code U1655, which indicates “Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow 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 diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that may be present. This can provide additional context for the problem.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Check the wiring harness and connectors related to the IPC for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• **Connector Pins: Ensure that the pins in the connectors are not bent, corroded, or pushed back.
• Check Power and Ground: **Power Supply: Verify that the IPC is receiving the correct voltage. Use a multimeter to check the power supply to the IPC.
• **Ground Connections: Ensure that the ground connections for the IPC are secure and free of corrosion.
• Inspect the IPC Module: **Module Condition: Check the IPC for any physical damage or signs of failure.
• **Reprogramming: If applicable, consider reprogramming or updating the IPC software, as a software glitch can sometimes cause communication issues.
• Test Communication Lines: **CAN Bus Check: Use a scan tool to check the communication on the CAN bus. Look for any abnormalities in the data transmission.
• **Loopback Test: Perform a loopback test to ensure that the IPC is capable of sending and receiving data.
• Check for Interference: **Aftermarket Accessories: If any aftermarket accessories have been installed, they may interfere with the IPC communication. Temporarily disconnect them to see if the issue resolves.
• Inspect Other Modules: **Communication with Other Modules: Check if other modules in the vehicle are experiencing communication issues. If multiple modules are affected, the problem may lie in the network rather than the IPC itself.
• Perform a Hard Reset: Disconnect the vehicle’s battery for a few minutes to reset the vehicle’s electronic systems. Reconnect and see if the code reappears.
• Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Look for any TSBs related to the IPC or communication issues for your specific vehicle make and model. Manufacturers may have issued fixes for known problems.
• Replace the IPC (if necessary): If all other troubleshooting steps fail and the IPC is determined to be faulty, consider replacing the IPC module.1
• Professional Diagnosis: If you are unable to resolve the issue, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic or dealership for further diagnosis and repair. By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the U1655 code and take appropriate action to resolve the communication issue with the Instrument Panel Cluster.