U0131: Lost Communication With Power Steering Control Module A
What Does U0131 Mean?
U0131 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Lost Communication With Power Steering Control Module A. This code relates to the network communication system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 6 different vehicle models.
Symptoms of U0131
- ⚠️ Steering issues
Common Causes
- 🔍 Wiring or connector problem
- 🔍 Sensor or control module malfunction
U0131 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"Daughter was driving and noticed initially that the steering wheel briefly lost power making right turns and applying the brakes. The next day while negotiating a curve the steering wheel froze and warning light came on stating “steering wheel assist fault.” Almost left the roadway before steering "
— Ford Escape owner, 05/18/2024
"POWER STEERING GOES OUT WHILE DRIVING. 2013 FORD EXPLORER, 86,000 MILES. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING AROUND A CURVE, GOING ABOUT 45 MILES PER HOUR ON A HIGHWAY, WHEN IT FIRST WENT OUT. THE STEERING WHEEL JERKED ITSELF BACK TO THE CENTER AND MY WIFE HAD TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES AND FORCE THE WHEEL TO STEER SAFE"
— Ford Explorer owner, 10/06/2016
"Randomly whilst driving, my dash had multiple error messages pop up and my power steering went out completely. The error messages were as follows: Service AdvanceTrac, Terrain Management System Fault, Hill Start Assist Not Available, & Power Steering Assit Fault. This keeps happening intermittently,"
— Ford Explorer owner, 08/26/2024
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for U0131
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | FORD EXPLORER | |
| 2 | FORD ESCAPE | |
| 3 | FORD FUSION | |
| 4 | CHEVROLET COLORADO | |
| 5 | CHEVROLET SUBURBAN | |
| 6 | JEEP CHEROKEE |
U0131 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes communication codes?
Can a bad battery cause network codes?
What To Do Next
Possible Fixes
- 🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
- 🔧 Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
- 🔧 Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections
- 🔧 Check battery voltage and ground connections; inspect CAN bus wiring
- 🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)
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1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.