U1693 – Communication Bus Off.

The ODBII code U1693 indicates a communication issue where a module on the vehicle’s communication bus is not responding or is offline, potentially due to a fault in the wiring, connectors, or the module itself.

The severity of ODBII code U1693 Communication Bus Off is moderate to severe.

Common Causes For: U1692 refers to a communication issue, specifically indicating “Lost Communication with the Body Control Module (BCM).

• Faulty wiring or connectors in the communication bus.
• Malfunctioning control modules.
• Short circuits or open circuits in the bus lines.
• Poor ground connections.
• Interference from aftermarket devices.
• Software issues or bugs in the control modules.
• Low battery voltage or power supply issues.

Common misdiagnosis for U1693 Communication Bus Off.

• Faulty ABS module
• Defective engine control module (ECM)
• Malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM)
• Bad wiring or connectors
• Faulty body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly diagnosed sensor issues
• Powertrain control module (PCM) issues
• Battery or charging system problems

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code U1693 indicates a “Communication Bus Off” issue, which typically means that there is a problem with the communication between the vehicle’s control modules. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve this issue:

• Check for Additional Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other trouble codes that may be present. Other codes can provide context and help identify the root cause of the communication issue.
• Inspect Wiring and Connectors: Visually inspect the wiring and connectors related to the communication bus (CAN bus). Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Pay special attention to the connectors on the modules involved in the communication.
• Check for Short Circuits: Use a multimeter to check for short circuits in the communication lines. Ensure that the wires are not shorted to ground or to each other.
• Test the Modules: If possible, test the control modules involved in the communication. This may involve checking for proper operation, ensuring they are powered, and verifying that they are functioning correctly.
• Check the CAN Bus Termination: Ensure that the CAN bus is properly terminated. There should be termination resistors at both ends of the bus. If these resistors are missing or faulty, it can lead to communication issues.
• Inspect for Interference: Look for any sources of electrical interference that could be affecting the communication bus. This could include aftermarket accessories, poor grounding, or other electronic devices.
• Scan for Communication Issues: Use a more advanced scan tool that can monitor live data and communication between modules. This can help identify which module is not communicating properly.
• Reset the System: Sometimes, simply clearing the code and resetting the system can resolve temporary communication issues. After clearing the code, take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Update Software/Firmware: Check if there are any software or firmware updates available for the vehicle’s control modules. Sometimes, communication issues can be resolved with an update.
• Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Look for any TSBs related to the specific make and model of the vehicle. Manufacturers may have issued guidance on known issues and fixes. 1
• Professional Diagnosis: If the issue persists after performing the above steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has experience with the specific vehicle and its communication systems. By following these steps, you can systematically diagnose and potentially resolve the U1693 code and the underlying communication issues in the vehicle.