U2173 – Lost Communication with the Instrument Cluster.
The ODBII code U2173 indicates a loss of communication between the vehicle’s control modules and the instrument cluster, suggesting a potential issue with wiring, connectors, or the cluster itself.
The severity of ODBII code U2173 is generally considered moderate to severe.
Common Causes For: U2170 U2170: “Control Module Communication Line Fault”
- Faulty instrument cluster
- Damaged wiring or connectors
- Poor ground connection
- Faulty communication network (CAN bus)
- Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
- Software issues or programming errors
- Corroded terminals or connectors
- Electrical interference or shorts in the system
Common misdiagnosis for U2173 Lost Communication with the Instrument Cluster.
- Faulty Instrument Cluster
- Bad Wiring or Connectors
- Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
- Malfunctioning Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
- Issues with the CAN Bus System
- Faulty Sensors (e.g., speed sensor)
- Battery or Charging System Problems
- Grounding Issues
Common Troubleshooting Steps
When dealing with the OBD-II code U2173, which indicates “Lost Communication with the Instrument Cluster,” 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 the Instrument Cluster: **Visual Inspection: Check the instrument cluster for any visible damage or signs of water intrusion.
- **Connections: Ensure that the connectors to the instrument cluster are secure and free of corrosion or damage.
- Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harnesses and connectors leading to the instrument cluster for any signs of wear, fraying, or disconnection.
- Look for any broken or shorted wires that could affect communication.
- Test the Instrument Cluster: If possible, test the instrument cluster by connecting a known good unit to see if the problem persists. This can help determine if the cluster itself is faulty.
- Check for Ground Issues: Ensure that the instrument cluster has a good ground connection. Poor grounding can lead to communication issues.
- Inspect the CAN Bus: The instrument cluster typically communicates over the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. Check for any issues with the CAN bus wiring or other modules on the bus that may be causing communication problems.
- Use a multimeter or oscilloscope to check for proper voltage levels and signal integrity on the CAN lines.
- Check for Software Issues: Sometimes, a software glitch can cause communication issues. Check if there are any available software updates for the vehicle’s modules, including the instrument cluster.
- 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.
- Scan for Module Communication: Use a professional-grade scan tool to check the communication between the various modules in the vehicle. This can help identify if other modules are having communication issues that could affect the instrument cluster.
- Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Check for any TSBs related to the specific make and model of the vehicle. Manufacturers may have issued guidance on common issues related to the instrument cluster.1
- Seek Professional Help: 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 make and model.Conclusion Troubleshooting OBD-II code U2173 involves a systematic approach to identify and resolve communication issues with the instrument cluster. By following these steps, you can narrow down the potential causes and take appropriate action to fix the problem.