U0402 on Dodge Caliber
Invalid Data Received From TCM
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Dodge Caliber context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for U0402.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What U0402 Means on Your Dodge Caliber
U0402 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Invalid Data Received From TCM. This code relates to the network communication system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Dodge Caliber Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"Driving car at ~35 mph - entire dashboard indicator lights come on - vehicle immediately slows down to 5 mph - no power when pressing on gas - rpm to up to 3 or 4 (like i'm driving 80 mph) malfunction indicator light and trans oil temp light comes on - almost rear-ended because of drastic reduction"
"I was driving down the road and the vehicle just stopped. then when i started it, it would only go 5 miles a hour. almost caused me to get into a wreck with my 3 yr. old granddaughter with me. i had a code reader put on it and it reads u0402-implausible data received from tcm."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Dodge Caliber
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.