Fix U0141: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The U0141: Lost Communication With Body Control Module “A” is for lost communication with your body module, This module is responsible for multiple interior/exterior systems like airbags, washers or lights.

U0141 quick overview

Meaning	U0141: Lost Communication With Body Control Module “A”
Is it serious?	This code is not an immediate emergency but should be addressed. It indicates a loss of communication with the Instrument Panel Module, which can affect various vehicle functions.
Possible causes	– Wiring or connector issues – Faulty BCM (Body control module) – Network communication problems
How to diagnose?	Check Wiring: Inspect wiring and connectors related to the IPM for damage or loose connections. Test BCM: Test the Body Control Module for proper function or consider replacement if necessary. Network Diagnosis: Diagnose the vehicle’s network communication for faults.

How to fix U0141 – learn from mechanics

I looked into U0141 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Jeep

Vehicle Information: 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 5.7L

Issue + Repair History:

• Vehicle would not crank, starter did not click.
• Scan tool could not communicate with ECM, transmission, ABS, and other modules.
• Powers and grounds to ECM checked and found normal.
• 60 ohms resistance in communication bus at ALDL connector.
• Voltage on CAN line was 2.5 volts.
• 5-volt reference out of ECM normal.

Computer Codes & Descriptions:

• U0141: Loss of communication with IPM (multiple instances)

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check terminal tension at DLC for connection issues.
• Verify communication with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module).
• Inspect the wiring harness for damage, grounds, and shorts.
• Use a labscope to check data packets on communication lines.
• Consider possibility of a faulty TIPM.
• Check data link fuse and CAN system for shorts.

Final Fix:

• Found a rat nest below the master cylinder with two CAN harnesses chewed through.
• Repaired the damaged wires, resolving the issue.

Case #2: Chrysler

Vehicle Information: 2007 Chrysler Sebring Touring 2.4L

Issue + Repair History:

• Vehicle randomly stalls, sometimes won’t start or crank.
• Temp gauge not reading during no crank instances.
• No communication with ECM, but other modules communicate.
• Previous repairs by other shops: replaced fuel pump, starter, and throttle body.
• Tried wiggling harness to ECM and fuse panel under the hood without any reaction.
• Issue persisted regardless of key used.

Computer Codes & Descriptions:

• U1015: Can communication
• C2202: VIN mismatch
• U1415: Missing vehicle data
• U0100: Lost communication with ECM
• U0141: Lost communication

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check power and ground connections to the ECM.
• Consider possibility of internal PCM issue.
• Inspect crank sensor wiring and oil sending unit wiring for damage or melting.

Final Fix:

• Found significant corrosion on the ground stud on the left strut tower.
• Cleaning the ground connection resolved the issue.
• No recurrence of the problem reported by the customer for several weeks.

Case #3: Dodge

Vehicle Information: 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT 6.7L

Issue + Repair History:

• EGR deleted and programmed.
• Random stalling while driving, sometimes no start, no crank.
• Replaced TIPM due to communication code.
• Installed OEM new module, but problem persisted.
• PCM icon losing communication and causing stalling, restarts after cooling down.

Computer Codes & Descriptions:

• U0100: Loss of communication with PCM/ECM
• U0141: Loss of communication with TIPM

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check ecm and pcm locations.
• Contact tuner company for help with aftermarket software.
• Restore factory ECM programming.
• Check power and ground connections to modules.
• Resistance check of the communication harness.
• Scope the communication harness for anomalies.

Final Fix:

• Installed a remanufactured ECM, restored communication.
• Tuner software was VIN locked; working with tuner company to resolve.
• The problem has been resolved, and the vehicle now runs properly.

Case #4: Chrysler

Vehicle Information: 2005 Chrysler 300 C 5.7L

Issue + Repair History:

• Initially came in for transmission, water pump, and motor mount repairs.
• After the work, the car wouldn’t shut off with the key.
• Cluster lights would intermittently indicate ignition on without keys.
• Only way to shut off the car was to pull the ASD relay.
• Used PCM and TIPM were installed.
• Aftermarket stereo and sound system in the trunk.

Computer Codes & Descriptions:

• U0141: Loss of communication with IPM (TIPM).
• U110a: Loss of communication with SCM – CAN-C.
• U110f: Lost fuel volume message.
• U110e: Loss ambient temp message.
• U1113: Loss A/C pressure message.
• U0103: Lost communication with electric gear selector module.

Final Fix:

• Discovered a fuse (IGN) in the trunk fuse box was in the wrong position.
• Placed the fuse in the correct position, and the car now shuts off with the key.
• Communication codes were resolved.

Case #5: Jeep

Vehicle Information: 2014 Jeep Compass Sport 2.0L

Issue + Repair History: The Jeep had recurring codes, including U1414, U0141, and others, every 30 miles. No driveability problems reported. O2 sensor replacement didn’t solve it. Occasional cranking issues and erratic wipers. Suspected the ignition switch and multifunction switch.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results: P0138, P0688, U1403, C121a, U0019.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

1. Check ground and power supply.
2. Perform volt drop tests on various components.
3. Examine driver side wheel liner and fuse box for corrosion.
4. Inspect TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) and main fuse box.
5. Clean and reconnect battery terminals.
6. Check main ground connections and cables.
7. Investigate alternator condition.
8. Inspect the back of the fuse block for corrosion.

Final Fix: The issue was resolved by tightening loose ground straps on the front driver side top support, ensuring a stable connection to the fuse box.

Advice	Diagnostic Step
Check ground and power supply	Perform voltage drop tests on key components
Examine for corrosion in the fuse box	Inspect TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module)
Clean and reconnect battery terminals	Inspect main ground connections and cables
Investigate alternator condition	Check the back of the fuse block for corrosion