U2617 – CAN Bus Communication Failure

The ODBII code U2617 indicates a “CAN Bus Communication Failure,” which means there is a problem with the communication between the vehicle’s control modules over the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus.

The severity of ODBII code U2617 is moderate to severe.

Common Causes For: U2616 U2616: “CAN Bus Communication Failure”

• Faulty CAN bus wiring or connectors
• Short circuit in the CAN bus
• Open circuit in the CAN bus
• Faulty control module
• Poor ground connection
• Interference from other electronic devices
• Corroded or damaged terminals
• Software issues or bugs in the control module
• Low battery voltage or power supply issues
• Faulty termination resistors

Common misdiagnosis for U2617 U2617: “CAN Bus Communication Failure”

• Faulty CAN Bus wiring
• Defective ECU (Electronic Control Unit)
• Malfunctioning sensors
• Poor ground connections
• Intermittent electrical connections
• Faulty or damaged connectors
• Software issues or updates needed
• Battery or power supply problems
• Other communication errors in the network
• Faulty modules in the CAN network

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code U2617 indicates a “CAN Bus Communication Failure.” This code typically points to issues with the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, which is responsible for communication between various electronic control units (ECUs) in a vehicle. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve the issue:

• Check for Additional Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other related trouble codes. This can provide more context about the issue.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Look for damaged, frayed, or corroded wires and connectors related to the CAN bus.
• **Loose Connections: Ensure that all connectors are securely attached and free of corrosion.
• Test the CAN Bus Voltage: Use a multimeter to check the voltage levels on the CAN High (CAN H) and CAN Low (CAN L) wires. The typical voltage levels should be around 2.5V when idle and should fluctuate between 2.0V and 3.0V when communicating.
• Check for Short Circuits: Inspect the CAN bus wiring for any short circuits to ground or to each other. This can cause communication failures.
• Inspect the ECUs: Identify which ECUs are connected to the CAN bus and check for any signs of failure or malfunction. A faulty ECU can disrupt communication.
• Test the Termination Resistors: Ensure that the CAN bus has the correct termination resistors (typically 120 ohms) at both ends of the bus. A missing or faulty resistor can lead to communication issues.
• Scan for Faulty Modules: Use a diagnostic tool to communicate with each module on the CAN bus. If one module is unresponsive, it may be the source of the problem.
• Check for Interference: Look for sources of electrical interference that could affect the CAN bus communication, such as aftermarket accessories or modifications.
• Perform a Network Test: If available, use a CAN bus analyzer or oscilloscope to monitor the data traffic on the bus. This can help identify if there are any irregularities in communication.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: After performing repairs or adjustments, clear the trouble codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.1
• Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Check for any manufacturer-specific TSBs related to the U2617 code, as there may be known issues or recalls that apply to your vehicle.1
• Seek Professional Help: If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician with experience in automotive electronics and CAN bus systems. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can systematically identify and resolve the underlying cause of the U2617 code.