Fix U0184: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The U0184: Lost Communication With Radio code signals a communication breakdown between the vehicle’s radio (or infotainment system) and other control modules. The radio receives various inputs from sensors and systems, relying on CAN bus communication to operate correctly. When this communication is disrupted, the radio may become inoperative, leading to this DTC.

U0184 quick overview

Description	U0184: Lost Communication With Radio
Is it serious?	This code is not typically serious and does not affect the vehicle’s operation, but it impacts the functionality of the radio and related systems.
Possible causes	– Open or short in the CAN bus circuit – No power or ground to the Radio module – Faulty radio control module – Wiring issues affecting communication lines – Aftermarket installations interfering with the radio system
How to diagnose?	Check Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Start by looking for TSBs related to your vehicle’s make and model. Scan for Other Codes: Use a scanner to check for additional fault codes that might relate to U0184. Inspect Radio Unit: Visually check the radio for power issues or internal faults. Test CAN Bus System: Examine the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus lines for open circuits or shorts. Verify Power and Grounds: Ensure the radio module is receiving proper power and ground connections. Inspect Wiring and Connectors: Check wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Consider Radio Replacement: If diagnostics point to a faulty radio, consider replacing it. Reset or Reprogram Modules: If necessary, reset or reprogram the radio or related control modules.

How to fix U0184 – learn from mechanics

I looked into U0184 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: Chrysler

Vehicle Information: 2009 Chrysler Town & Country Touring 3.8L

Issue + Repair History:

• After A/C evaporator core replacement, the radio would not power up.
• Voltage and ground at the radio checked: 12 volts and good ground.
• 2.5 volts noted at data lines.
• Stored U0184 code.
• Suspected radio defect as all worked before dash assembly removal.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check if a 30-amp fuse was removed from TIPM before battery disconnect or reconnect as per TSB.
• Disconnect both battery cables, remove radio fuse, and let sit for a few hours before reconnecting.
• Disconnect battery and short the positive and negative cables together.
• Remove both battery cables and hold together for about 5 minutes.
• If U0184 (No Comm with Radio) persists after checking power, ground, and CAN lines, consider replacing the radio.
• The radio may be ‘woke up’ by the CAN system if there is no IGN power.

Final Fix: Replaced the radio, which resolved the issue. Found a service bulletin advising to remove the radio fuse prior to unplugging the radio or disconnecting it, which was not done originally.

Case #2: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information: 2013 Chevrolet Cruze LT 1.4L

Issue + Repair History:

• After left front collision near the fuse box, the climate control panel is inoperative, with no indicator lights, but the A/C compressor and blower activate at maximum upon engine start.
• The radio and display screen are inoperative.
• OnStar buttons and lights in the rearview mirror are inoperative.
• Stored codes include BCM: U0100-00, Airbag and HVAC: U0184-00, B2455-04, B2476-04, and HVAC U1510-00.
• Replaced the fuse box with one from a 2012 Cruze but saw no change.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• U0100-00 (intermittent)
• U0184-00 (persistent)
• U1510-00
• B2455-04
• B2476-04

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check for a bad fuse box or loose connectors in the fuse box.
• Trace power leads back to the source from non-functioning components.
• Check power and ground inputs at module connectors.
• Check the grounds on the driver front left, as they can affect various systems.
• Consider problems with the LIN bus circuit and voltage.
• Ensure the donor car for the fuse box has the same option codes.

Final Fix:

• After checking power, ground, and data for affected modules, took the car to a Chevy dealer.
• The dealer suggested replacing the radio and HVAC module.
• Replaced the radio and HVAC module from a parts car and eBay.
• Dealer programmed both into the car, and they now work fine.
• OnStar still inoperative, considering swapping the telematics module.

Case #3: Dodge

Vehicle Information: 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 ST 5.7L

Issue + Repair History:

• Intermittent issues with the starter taking a few seconds to engage.
• Radio is blacked out and not working.
• Message center displays “NO FUSE.”
• Occasional beeping sound heard.
• Code u0184 on SRS Module, TIPM Module, HVAC Module, and IPC Module.
• Discovered an aftermarket GPS system installed.
• Inspected TIPM and IOD, no visible issues found.
• Disconnecting the IOD resulted in the radio blacking out and “NO FUSE” message, indicating a relation to the circuit.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check for ignition switch problems or signs of a burnt wire behind the steering wheel harness.
• Trace the ignition side of the circuit related to the IOD circuit.
• Inspect the grey-red wire that powers the radio, particularly around the left front tire and wheel liner.
• Consider a dealer reflash for intermittent radio operation.
• Remove the GPS tracker from the circuit to check if it resolves the problem.
• Ensure the IOD is fully seated in the TIPM.

Final Fix:

• Found a corroded terminal in one of the connectors under the TIPM, which was attached to the fuse for the radio and instrument cluster.
• The corrosion caused the terminal to be partially attached, leading to intermittent issues.
• Repairing the corroded terminal resolved the problems.

Case #4: Buick

Vehicle Information: 2013 Buick Encore 1.4L

Issue + Repair History:

• Radio and vehicle lights flickering on and off, primarily at night.
• B101D-37: ECU hardware/safety failure.
• Multiple codes appearing on scanner, including B1517, B101e, B1325, U0184, B2955, B1328.
• Problem has worsened over six months.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• B1517: Battery voltage plausibility failure
• B101e: ECU software VIN not programmed
• B1325: Control module power circuit voltage below threshold
• U0184: Lost communication with radio
• B2955: Security sensor data circuit
• B1328: Control module power low current circuit voltage below

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check charging voltage and amperage, as well as voltage at the fuse blocks.
• Look for voltage drop on negative battery cable; consider special policy for replacement.
• Pull out the amplifier and check the connectors.
• Update and replace the negative battery cable.
• Check for related Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs).

Final Fix:

• Updated the A/C control module, BCM, PCM, and replaced the negative battery terminal.
• These actions resolved the issues, and the vehicle has been functioning correctly for a month.

Case #5: Jeep

Vehicle Information: 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 3.6L

Issue + Repair History:

• Vehicle unlocking itself at random intervals overnight, draining the battery.
• Initially thought to be an issue with the key fob contacts; cleaned out brown sticky substance found inside the fob, resolving the issue temporarily.
• Issue returned after a month.
• Codes retrieved: B1a09 (Wireless control Module key fob 2 Performance), U0184 (Lost communication with radio).
• Wiring, fuses, relays, and door closed PIDs checked and found no issues.
• Suspected grounding problem, TIPM issue, or defective key fob.

Final Fix:

• Upon re-inspection, found the same brown substance inside the key fob.
• Replaced the key fob and its battery.
• After replacement, the Jeep no longer unlocked itself randomly.
• Suggested future diagnostic step: Inspect key fob thoroughly for any substance on button contacts and use a key fob signal tester if available.

Common Advice for U0184 Code Solutions	Brief Description of Diagnostic Step
Inspect Radio and Infotainment System	Check the radio and infotainment unit for power issues or internal faults.
Check Communication Lines	Verify the integrity of communication lines between the radio and other modules.
Examine Ground Connections	Ensure ground connections related to the radio and infotainment system are secure.
Diagnose CAN Bus System	Assess the CAN bus network for disruptions or malfunctions affecting communication.
Verify Power Supply to Radio	Check for consistent and adequate power supply to the radio unit.
Replace Radio or Infotainment Unit if Necessary	Consider replacing the radio or infotainment unit if diagnostics indicate a failure.
Update Radio Software/Firmware	Update the radio’s software or firmware if updates are available.
Scan for Additional Error Codes	Use a diagnostic scanner to find any additional codes that might relate to U0184.
Inspect for Aftermarket Modifications	Look for any aftermarket installations or modifications that could impact the radio system.
Reset or Reprogram Modules	Reset or reprogram relevant control modules to restore proper communication.