What it means
A control module is not receiving expected messages from the Rear Seat Entertainment Control Module. Rear-seat entertainment functions may be unavailable; the code alone does not identify why communication was lost.
How it works
The Rear Seat Entertainment Control Module coordinates rear-seat entertainment functions and communicates with other modules over the vehicle network. U0196 is stored when the reporting module does not receive the rear entertainment module's expected messages before its timeout.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- RSE module unpowered
- CAN wiring to RSE broken
- Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly
Symptoms
- Rear-seat entertainment functions may be unavailable
- Other communication codes
How to diagnose it
- Scan all modules and record freeze-frame data and communication codes to determine whether the rear-seat module alone is offline or the network has a wider fault.
- Check battery condition and system voltage, then confirm whether the rear-seat entertainment system powers up.
- Inspect the rear-seat module's power, ground, and CAN connectors for loose connections, corrosion, or damaged wiring.
- Trace the CAN wiring to the rear-seat module and check for an open or short using the vehicle wiring diagram.
- If its power and wiring are sound, check gateway status and message routing, then test the module's network connection to the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Restore power or ground to the rear-seat entertainment module.
- Reseat or clean its network connector.
- Repair damaged CAN wiring to the rear-seat module.
- Correct a gateway routing fault identified by diagnostics.
- Replace or reprogram the rear-seat entertainment module if circuit and network checks confirm failure.
Can I keep driving?
Rear-seat entertainment functions may be unavailable, but this code alone generally does not affect vehicle control or emissions. Driving is usually unaffected unless other codes show a separate problem.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.