U0131 on Mitsubishi: How to Diagnose & Fix
Lost Communication with Power Steering Module
1 Mitsubishi model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
U0131 on Mitsubishi by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Early Eclipse Cross models with Forward Collision Mitigation brake hard for objects that are not there. This is not just owner perception — NHTSA recall 18V620000 covers 2018-2019 Mitsubishi vehicles whose FCM-ECU software applies braking for longer than needed even after a pedestrian is no longer detected, with the stated consequence that drivers brake harder in response and increase rear-end collision risk. Companion recall 18V621000 covers a hydraulic unit ECU software defect that may prevent automatic emergency braking, ABS, electronic stability control and Brake Auto Hold from working properly. Owner complaints go beyond the recall scope: filings describe adaptive cruise control triggering FCM braking when cresting hills with nothing ahead, and repeated multi-warning-light events with hard braking recurring several times a year despite dealer repairs. The camera-and-radar fusion is sensitive to road crown, overhead signs and reflective surfaces, and the system's brake authority is high enough that a false trigger at highway speed is genuinely hazardous.
Common Symptoms
- Vehicle brakes hard with no object ahead
- False forward collision warning alarms at any speed
- Braking triggered when cresting a hill on adaptive cruise
- Multiple dashboard warning lights flash simultaneously
- FCM, ASC and ABS warning lights on together
- Automatic emergency braking or Brake Auto Hold inoperative
How to Fix
First, run the VIN against NHTSA recalls and have both 18V620000 (FCM-ECU reprogram, Mitsubishi reference SR-18-007) and 18V621000 (hydraulic unit ECU reprogram, reference SR-18-008) performed free of charge if not already applied. If phantom braking persists after the reflashes, the next step is a windshield-camera aim and calibration — a replaced or improperly calibrated windshield is a very common cause of false triggers, and the camera requires a targeted static or dynamic aiming procedure, not just a mount swap. Check the front radar sensor behind the lower grille for physical misalignment, ice packing or a bent bracket from minor parking contact. As a temporary measure the FCM system can be switched off from the vehicle settings menu before each drive, though it re-arms at every ignition cycle.
Sources for this issue (2)
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 on a Mitsubishi?
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. On Mitsubishi it is documented across 1 model: Eclipse Cross.
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 on a Mitsubishi?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Mitsubishi model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
Looking for U0131 on a different make?
View U0131 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.