U0184 on Honda: How to Diagnose & Fix
Lost Communication With Radio
2 Honda models · 3 documented issues · 1 critical
U0184 on Honda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Infotainment system experiences black screens, crashes, freezes, and complete failure due to faulty FAKRA connectors in MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport) communication network. Improperly designed MOST coaxial cable causes deformed terminals and poor/lost connections. If MOST communication lost for 20+ seconds, rearview camera fails when in reverse.
Common Symptoms
- Infotainment screen goes black/blank
- System freezes or crashes while driving
- Screen won't turn on after starting vehicle
- Rearview camera shows black screen in reverse
- Radio/navigation system unresponsive
- Instrument panel and infotainment reboot while driving
- Crackling speakers (related to MOST bus failure)
How to Fix
Honda issued recalls and TSBs (TSB 20-049, TSB 21-013) with warranty extension. Dealers inspect wiring for MOST network components utilizing FAKRA connectors and reconfigure wiring to prevent stress on harness. Repair involves replacing MOST cable harnesses and installing straightening covers over vehicle cable connectors.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipWhen scheduling service, specifically mention "FAKRA connector" and "TSB 21-013" - some service advisors aren't aware
- TipRequest regional Honda technical specialist if your dealer can't diagnose or says "no problem found"
- WarningDon't accept "software update only" fix - FAKRA connector wiring must be inspected and replaced
- TipIf out of warranty, some dealers approve goodwill coverage for this known defect - escalate to Honda corporate
Sources for this issue (2)
Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) coaxial cable connector improperly designed and manufactured, causing deformed terminals and poor/lost connections between audio display unit and vehicle cable connector. When MOST communication lost for 20+ seconds, rearview camera function fails when shifted into reverse, creating serious safety hazard as driver cannot see behind vehicle.
Common Symptoms
- Backup camera shows black screen when in reverse
- "Check Rear View Camera System" message
- Camera works intermittently
- Camera image freezes or pixelates
- Complete loss of rearview camera function
How to Fix
Honda issued recall covering 2018-2023 Odyssey minivans. Dealers replace MOST cable harnesses and install straightening covers over vehicle cable connectors to prevent future deformation. Owners who paid for repairs before recall eligible for reimbursement. 273,870 warranty claims filed before recall issued.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningBackup camera failure is serious safety issue - get recall repair done immediately
- TipIf you paid for MOST connector or backup camera repairs before recall, keep receipts for reimbursement
- TipReference the 273,870 warranty claims when requesting goodwill coverage if just outside warranty period
- WarningDon't rely solely on backup camera - always physically check behind vehicle before reversing
Sources for this issue (2)
2016-2017 Accords with the upper Display Audio screen suffer frequent infotainment faults: the screen freezes, the unit spontaneously reboots, the whole system goes blank, audio drops out, and Apple CarPlay shows distorted/garbled visuals or fails to connect. Honda issued Service Bulletin 16-059 addressing numerous software issues (blank screen, reboots, freezing, no sound, Bluetooth/XM faults) on EX, EX-L and Touring trims. Owners also suspect an underlying head-unit overheating/cooling design flaw that aggravates CarPlay crashes. While not a safety recall, it is one of the most-reported complaints for these model years.
Common Symptoms
- Infotainment screen freezes or goes blank
- System spontaneously reboots while driving
- Apple CarPlay disconnects or shows garbled/pixelated image
- No audio output
- Bluetooth or XM radio dropouts
How to Fix
First try a soft reboot (hold the power/volume button ~10 seconds). Have the dealer apply the latest Display Audio software per SB 16-059. If the unit still freezes/reboots after the update, the head unit (audio-navigation unit) is replaced. Some owners reduce CarPlay crashes by using a high-quality MFi Lightning cable and keeping iOS updated, but the durable fix is the Honda software update or unit replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Apple Lightning-to-USB Type-A cable, 1 meterOEMApple MUQW3AM/A
Rule out a damaged or noncompliant cable when the failure occurs only during wired Apple CarPlay Fitment/availability: 2016-2017 Accord USB Type-A CarPlay port with an iPhone using a Lightning connector. Not for USB-C iPhones and not a r…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (1)
U0184 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 U0184 mean on a Honda?
U0184 stands for "Lost Communication With Radio." This network code means a module stopped receiving expected communication messages from the radio/audio module over the vehicle's data bus. When the radio module goes offline or its bus connection fails, this code is logged. On some vehicles the audio module also acts as a network gateway, so its loss can trigger several related communication codes. Symptoms are typically a dead or unresponsive radio/infotainment system; it does not affect drivability. On Honda it is documented across 2 models: Odyssey, Accord.
What are the most common causes of U0184?
The most common causes of U0184 are: Loss of power or ground to the radio/audio module, Blown radio fuse, Wiring or connector fault on the communication bus, Faulty radio/audio control module, Corroded or loose module connector, Network/bus wiring short affecting multiple modules. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix U0184 on a Honda?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Honda model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
Looking for U0184 on a different make?
View U0184 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.