U0140 on Chevrolet: How to Diagnose & Fix
Lost Communication with BCM
2 Chevrolet models · 2 documented issues · $150-$800 repair
U0140 on Chevrolet by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 2015+ Suburban uses an electronic steering column lock that can malfunction, causing a clicking noise from the steering column, failure to recognize the key fob, or preventing the vehicle from starting. The electronic lock module replaces the traditional key-cylinder lock and communicates with the body control module (BCM) to verify the key fob is present before allowing the engine to start. When the lock module fails, it may click repeatedly without unlocking, or it may not engage at all, leaving the steering unlocked even when the vehicle is off.
Common Symptoms
- Rapid clicking noise from steering column
- Vehicle will not start — "Steering Column Lock" message
- Key fob not detected despite fresh battery
- Steering wheel does not lock when vehicle is off
- Intermittent no-start condition
- Multiple clicks before engine starts
How to Fix
The steering column lock actuator module needs replacement ($150-$400 for parts, $200-$400 labor). The module is located inside the steering column and requires partial disassembly to access. A scan tool is needed to program the new module to the BCM after installation. In some cases, a BCM software update at the dealer resolves the clicking without hardware replacement. If the vehicle will not start due to a failed lock module, a tow to the dealer is required — there is no manual override.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
The Equinox EV's infotainment system (GM option codes IVD/IVE) has software faults that GM has addressed in a series of service bulletins. Technical bulletin 24-NA-193 added the Equinox EV in December 2024. It releases a new radio software version, and its listed fixes include black center and cluster screens, a backup camera that shows a black screen (sometimes with only the guidelines), a cluster that resets while driving, gear information missing from the cluster, a charging app that will not launch, a blank head-up display, slow startup, and the radio losing its display and audio for about a minute. Two later GM preliminary bulletins cover the 2024–2025 Equinox EV. PIT6248B describes a touch screen that registers a touch but does not respond. PIT6362D lists phone-projection black screens and disconnects, lost or crackling media audio, Bluetooth devices that will not delete or disconnect, camera performance problems, cluster dimming, and slow radio boot. In all three bulletins GM points to software anomalies as the likely cause, not failed hardware.
Common Symptoms
- Center infotainment screen goes black or freezes
- Touch screen registers a touch but the radio does not respond
- Backup camera shows a black screen, sometimes with only the guidelines
- Instrument cluster goes black, dims, resets while driving, or does not show the gear
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto screen goes black, crashes or disconnects
- Media audio drops out, crackles or has volume problems
- Bluetooth phone will not delete or disconnect, or Add Phone is greyed out
- Radio is slow to boot or loses display and audio for about a minute
How to Fix
Start with the free workaround from GM bulletin PIT6248B. With the vehicle in Park, hold the end-call button on the steering wheel for about 30 seconds. The radio resets and should return to normal. If problems keep coming back, ask the dealer to check whether the radio is on software W52E-176.1.2-M170-SQBR5-250.2 from technical bulletin 24-NA-193, or a later release. The dealer does this reprogramming with a programming tool on a hardwired connection. For problems on the PIT6362D list, such as phone projection, audio, Bluetooth, camera, cluster dimming or slow boot, GM tells dealers not to replace the radio, amplifier, speakers or displays and to have owners wait for updated software where practical. All three bulletins give a warranty labor operation under Bumper-to-Bumper coverage, so a car still inside that coverage should not be charged. Before approving any part replacement for these symptoms, quote the bulletin numbers to the service advisor.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (3)
U0140 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 U0140 mean on a Chevrolet?
U0140 stands for "Lost Communication with BCM." U0140 is a network communication code meaning a module has lost communication with the body control module (BCM) over the vehicle's data bus. The BCM oversees many body and convenience functions — lighting, door locks, windows, wipers, anti-theft, and gateway communications — so losing contact with it can cause a wide range of seemingly unrelated electrical problems and warning lights. This is typically a wiring, connector, power/ground, or bus fault, or a failure of the BCM itself. Because the BCM often acts as a communication hub, this code can appear alongside other 'lost communication' codes. On Chevrolet it is documented across 2 models: Suburban, Equinox EV.
What are the most common causes of U0140?
The most common causes of U0140 are: Loss of power or ground to the BCM, CAN/data bus wiring damage, short, or open circuit, Corroded, loose, or damaged BCM connectors, Blown fuse feeding the BCM, Failed body control module, Water intrusion or corrosion in the harness, Another module faulting the shared data bus. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix U0140 on a Chevrolet?
Published repair estimates on Chevrolet range from $150 to $800 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.