OBD-II fault code

U301B: Control Module Wake-up Circuit A Low

What it means

Wake-up signal A voltage below expected range — short to ground. A communication loss with this module breaks any function relying on its data — diagnostic tools may show 'no response' and dependent modules can fall into limp mode.

At a glance

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

How it works

Wake-up circuit A carries the signal that tells a control module to become active. The receiving module monitors this line and sets U301B when its voltage falls below the expected range, consistent with a short to ground. If the module does not wake or communicate, functions that depend on its data may be unavailable.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Wiring shorted to ground
  2. Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly
  3. CAN terminating resistor (120 Ω) drifted out of spec

Symptoms

  • Multiple warning lights may illuminate
  • Affected modules may go into limp mode or shut down
  • Specific functions inoperative depending on module
  • Diagnostic tools may show communication faults

How to diagnose it

  1. Save freeze-frame data and scan all modules for communication faults to identify which module is not responding and when the fault occurred.
  2. Compare wake-up circuit A status or voltage in live data, if available, with the ignition state and the module’s expected response.
  3. Inspect the circuit A wire, connectors, and grounds for chafing, pin damage, moisture, or contact with grounded metal.
  4. With the circuit isolated as directed by the manufacturer, check for a short from wake-up circuit A to ground.
  5. If the wiring passes, check gateway routing and CAN network condition, including termination resistance, against the manufacturer's specification.

Common fixes

  • Repair chafed or grounded wiring on wake-up circuit A.
  • Clean, secure, or repair damaged connectors and ground connections.
  • Correct gateway configuration or routing if diagnostic evidence identifies it as the source.
  • Repair the CAN network or replace an out-of-spec terminating resistor after confirming the fault.

Can I keep driving?

Avoid relying on functions that depend on the affected module; related warnings, shutdowns, or limp mode may occur. If steering, braking, or another safety-related function is affected, stop driving and arrange inspection.

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.

Codes for the same component

Nearby codes