U0131: How to Diagnose & Fix — Lost Communication with Power Steering Module
24 vehicles · 13 makes · $100-$4,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix U0131: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Ford Fusion · 2011–2013
NHTSA recall 15V340 covers 2011-2013 Ford Fusion (and Lincoln MKZ) without the 3.5L engine. An intermittent electrical connection in the steering gear can cause sudden loss of electric power steering assist while driving. Owners notice heavier steering effort especially at low speeds, increasing crash risk. Dealers check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for DTCs; if any loss-of-assist codes are stored, the steering gear is replaced free. Note: 2010 Fusions had the same parts but were excluded from the recall — feds closed the probe without expanding scope. 2010-owner symptoms are real but uncovered by recall.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering warning message on dashboard
- Steering becomes heavy or requires extra force
- Intermittent loss of power steering assist
- Steering wheel off-center after loss of assist
- Clunking or grinding from steering column area
- Complete loss of power steering (requires significant force to turn)
- Steering assist comes and goes unpredictably
- Check engine light or power steering fault code stored
How to Fix
Check if your vehicle is covered under Ford recall (2011-2012 Fusion/MKZ power steering failure recall - free repair). For non-recall vehicles, the electric power steering rack must be replaced as a complete unit since the motor and control electronics are integrated. RepairPal estimates $1,958-3,362 installed. Remanufactured racks from PWR Steer or Cardone are available at $800-1,500, significantly cheaper than new OEM ($2,000+). Have the alignment performed after rack replacement.
Sources for this issue (1)
Jeep Cherokee · 2014–2023
Controller Area Network electrical system experiences communication failures between modules, triggering multiple warning lights and system failures simultaneously. Common codes U0001 and U0131 indicate wiring harness breaks or connector corrosion.
Common Symptoms
- Multiple dashboard warning lights simultaneously
- "Service Power Steering" warning
- Transmission surging or shifting issues
- Loss of power steering assistance
- Issues worse in freezing temperatures
How to Fix
Identify failed module/harness and replace damaged components. Check battery terminals, inspect cargo area for water damage, verify Power Steering Control Module wiring harness above transmission. May require dealer-level diagnostics.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipCheck battery terminals first - clean and tighten connections
- TipInspect driver's side cargo area for standing water
Sources for this issue (2)
Ford Explorer · 2011–2013
An intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear can cause the electric power steering assist system to shut down unexpectedly while driving. This results in significantly increased steering effort required, which can be dangerous especially at low speeds during parking maneuvers or in emergency situations.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering warning light illuminated
- Grinding or rubbing noise from steering
- Sudden loss of power steering assist
- Steering becomes very heavy/difficult to turn
- Intermittent power steering operation
How to Fix
Replace electric power steering gear assembly. Steering control module reprogramming. Check and repair wiring connections to steering gear.
Sources for this issue (2)
Ford Flex · 2009–2013
Buick LaCrosse · 2017–2017
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U0131 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does U0131 mean?
U0131 stands for "Lost Communication with Power Steering Module." This is a network communication code meaning the vehicle's computers have lost communication with the power steering control module over the data bus (CAN). Modern cars link control modules so they can share data, and this code sets when other modules stop receiving expected messages from the power steering unit. The most common result is loss or reduction of power-assisted steering, making the wheel feel heavy, along with a warning light. It generally points to a wiring/connector or power problem at the steering module, a bus fault, or a failed module rather than a mechanical steering issue.
What are the most common causes of U0131?
The most common causes of U0131 are: Loss of power or ground to the power steering module, Open or shorted CAN bus wiring to the module, Corroded or loose connector at the steering module, Blown fuse feeding the power steering system, Failed power steering control module, Other module or wiring fault disrupting the data bus, Software/configuration mismatch after a repair. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix U0131?
Repair costs for U0131 range from $100 to $4,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by U0131?
Au7o has documented U0131 across 24 vehicle models from 13 manufacturers: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dacia, Ford, Jeep, Lincoln, Mitsubishi, Opel, Pontiac, RAM, Saturn, Toyota.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.