U0140 on Dodge: How to Diagnose & Fix
Lost Communication with BCM
2 Dodge models · 2 documented issues · 1 critical · $10-$2,400 repair
U0140 on Dodge by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Dodge Magnum suffers from widespread electrical problems centered around the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) and the steering column control module (clockspring). Symptoms include dash lights flickering or going completely dark while driving, headlights cutting out at night, loss of turn signals, wipers, horn, and cruise control all at once. The steering column module failure is particularly dangerous as it can disable multiple safety systems simultaneously. The TIPM relay failures can cause no-start conditions, fuel pump cutouts, and random electrical gremlins throughout the vehicle.
Common Symptoms
- Dashboard lights flickering or going completely dark while driving
- Headlights cutting out intermittently, especially at night
- Loss of turn signals, wipers, horn, and cruise control simultaneously
- Vehicle cranks but will not start intermittently
- Fuel pump stops running randomly while driving
- Warning lights illuminating on dash without clear cause
How to Fix
For steering column module failure (loss of wipers, horn, turn signals, cruise control simultaneously), replace the clockspring assembly ($150-$300 part, $200-$400 labor). For TIPM-related issues, have the relays tested — individual relay replacement is sometimes possible ($50-$150), but full TIPM replacement runs $400-$800 for the module plus programming. For flickering dash lights, check the instrument cluster ground connections and the body harness ground behind the left kick panel.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 56049795AE clockspring / steering-column control module
Replace when steering-wheel functions and clockspring/module testing isolate this assembly Fitment: Product fitment includes Magnum configurations; verify VIN/options and airbag procedure Live OEM direct-product page when checked
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Sources for this issue (1)
The Dodge Challenger has two distinct, well-documented power-steering complaints on the pre-2015 LC/LX-platform cars, and both are flagged by RepairPal as common problems (MotorBiscuit lists "a loud power steering system" among the four most-reported Challenger issues). FIRST, a HYDRAULIC NOISE: owners hear a honk, hiss, groan, or whine from the steering during low-speed parking-lot maneuvers, worst when turning the wheel toward full lock. RepairPal documents this as a recognized concern on 2008-2012 Challengers; Chrysler addressed it with TSB 19-005-10 ("Steering Gear Honk, Hiss or Groan During Low Speed Parking Lot Maneuvers," superseding 19-003-09), which traces the noise to the power-steering return hose and, in some cases, the steering gear (rack). Fluid aeration, a low or contaminated fluid level, and worn pump vanes/bearings produce the same groan/whine. SECOND, an ASSIST-LOSS failure on EHPS cars: 2011-2014 Challengers with the 3.6L Pentastar or 5.7L HEMI use an electro-hydraulic power-steering (EHPS) pump that depends on the charging system. Under NHTSA recall 17V-435 (Chrysler recall T36, ~442,214 vehicles across Challenger/Charger/300/Durango/Grand Cherokee), the alternator can suffer diode thermal fatigue specifically because of the cyclical electrical loads the EHPS pump imposes; when the diodes fail, system voltage drops, the EHPS pump shuts down, the steering goes heavy, and the vehicle can stall without warning (failed diodes can also short and cause heat/smoke/fire). Note the engine/fluid split: 3.6L/5.7L EHPS cars require Mopar Electric Power Steering Fluid, while the conventional hydraulic SRT8/392 (6.1L/6.4L) and base V6 systems use ATF+4 — using the wrong fluid causes noise, seal damage, and pump failure. This entry is distinct from the later electronic-EPS-rack failure on the 2015+ refreshed Challenger (recalls S19/16V-167 and VB8/19V-812), which is a different rack design and root cause.
Common Symptoms
- Honk, hiss, or groan from the steering during low-speed parking-lot maneuvers (worst near full lock)
- Whining noise from the power-steering pump that rises with engine RPM or when turning
- Heavy/hard steering at low speed
- Sudden loss of power-steering assist (EHPS cars) accompanied by a charging-system or voltage warning
- Vehicle stalls without warning (alternator diode failure on EHPS cars)
- Burning smell, smoke, or smell of electrical heat from the engine bay (failed alternator diodes shorting)
- Foamy or low power-steering fluid
How to Fix
For the low-speed honk/hiss/groan: start cheap. Verify the power-steering fluid level and condition and use the CORRECT fluid for your system — Mopar Electric Power Steering Fluid for 3.6L/5.7L EHPS cars, ATF+4 for conventional hydraulic SRT8/392 (6.1L/6.4L) and base hydraulic systems. A fluid flush/bleed to purge trapped air often quiets the noise (DIY fluid is ~$5-10/qt, ~2 qt; shop fluid service starts around $111). If the noise persists, follow TSB 19-005-10 and replace the power-steering RETURN HOSE first; if that does not cure it, the steering gear (rack and pinion) is the next step (Challenger rack-and-pinion replacement averages roughly $2,057-$2,372). A worn pump that whines/groans constantly may need replacement (Challenger power-steering pump replacement averages about $1,347-$2,122, with simpler jobs starting near $327). For the EHPS assist-loss / alternator issue on 2011-2014 3.6L/5.7L cars: check your VIN at nhtsa.gov for recall 17V-435 (Chrysler T36) — the alternator is replaced FREE with an improved-diode unit; if a "Power Steering" or charging/voltage warning appears or steering suddenly goes heavy, do not ignore it because the car can stall. Contact FCA at 1-800-853-1403 (reference T36) or NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236. After any rack or steering-angle-related work, a steering-angle-sensor recalibration may be required.
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Sources for this issue (1)
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 Dodge?
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 Dodge it is documented across 2 models: Magnum, Challenger.
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 Dodge?
Published repair estimates on Dodge range from $10 to $2,400 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.
Looking for U0140 on a different make?
View U0140 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.