U2138 – Lost Communication with the Steering Angle Sensor.

The ODBII code U2138 indicates that there is a loss of communication between the vehicle’s control module and the steering angle sensor, which may affect systems that rely on steering input for operation.

The severity of ODBII code U2138 is generally considered moderate.

Common Causes For: U2137 Lost Communication with the Steering Angle Sensor.

• Faulty steering angle sensor
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Poor electrical connections
• Malfunctioning control module
• Software issues or updates needed
• Corrosion or dirt in connectors
• Battery or power supply issues
• Faulty CAN bus communication

Common misdiagnosis for U2138 Lost Communication with the Steering Angle Sensor.

• Faulty Steering Angle Sensor
• Wiring Issues or Short Circuits
• Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
• Faulty Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Module
• Incorrectly Calibrated Steering Angle Sensor
• Faulty Instrument Cluster
• Issues with the CAN Bus Communication
• Battery or Power Supply Problems

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with the OBD-II code U2138, which indicates “Lost Communication with the Steering Angle Sensor,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Check for Other Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes. Sometimes, multiple codes can provide more context about the issue.
• Inspect Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the steering angle sensor 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.
• Test the Steering Angle Sensor: **Sensor Functionality: If possible, test the steering angle sensor using a multimeter or scan tool to ensure it is functioning correctly. Check the output voltage or resistance as specified in the vehicle’s service manual.
• **Calibration: Some vehicles require the steering angle sensor to be calibrated after installation or repair. Check if calibration is necessary.
• Check Power and Ground: **Power Supply: Verify that the steering angle sensor is receiving the correct voltage. Use a multimeter to check the power supply at the sensor connector.
• **Ground Connection: Ensure that the ground connection for the sensor is intact and providing a good ground.
• Inspect the CAN Bus: **Communication Lines: Since the steering angle sensor communicates over the CAN bus, check for any issues with the CAN wiring. Look for shorts, opens, or interference in the communication lines.
• **Other Modules: Ensure that other modules on the CAN bus are functioning correctly, as a fault in another module can affect communication.
• Check for Software Updates: **ECU Updates: Check if there are any software updates available for the vehicle’s ECU that may address communication issues.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears.
• Consult Service Manual: Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific diagnostic procedures related to the steering angle sensor and any manufacturer-specific troubleshooting steps.
• Professional Diagnosis: If the issue persists after performing the above steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or dealership, as they may have specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose the problem further. By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the U2138 code and take appropriate action to resolve the communication issue with the steering angle sensor.