U0130: Lost Communication With Steering Effort Control Module

What it means

A control module has stopped receiving expected messages from the steering effort control module. Steering assist or related functions may be limited, depending on the vehicle.

At a glance

• Usually lights the warning light of the system that lost communication

How it works

The Steering Effort Control Module provides steering-assist or steering-feel information to other controllers over the vehicle network. This code sets when expected messages from that module are not received, which can follow a low-voltage event, a module power or ground fault, damaged network wiring, or module failure.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Steering effort control module power or ground fault
2. Damaged network wiring or connector
3. Steering effort control module failure
4. Low system voltage

Symptoms

• Steering warning or message
• Steering effort may change
• Other communication codes

How to diagnose it

1. Save freeze-frame data and scan for other steering and communication codes; note whether the Steering Effort Control Module responds and whether the fault followed a low-voltage event.
2. Check battery and charging-system condition, then inspect the module’s fuses, power supply, and grounds against the wiring diagram.
3. Inspect the Steering Effort Control Module connector and network wiring for corrosion, loose terminals, chafing, or damage.
4. Use a scan tool to check module communication and review network or gateway status for missing messages from the steering-effort module.
5. If its power and ground are correct, test the communication circuit to the manufacturer’s procedure and specification before considering module replacement.

Common fixes

• Recharge or replace a failing battery, or repair the charging system if voltage is low.
• Repair the Steering Effort Control Module’s fuse, power feed, ground, or connector fault.
• Repair damaged network wiring or a loose or corroded connection.
• Correct a verified gateway or network-routing problem.
• Replace the Steering Effort Control Module only after supply and communication checks pass.

Can I keep driving?

Steering effort may change if assist-related functions are affected; avoid high speeds and tight traffic until you know the steering behaves predictably. If steering becomes unusually heavy or inconsistent, stop safely, since maneuvering may require substantially more effort.