Network, generic

U0130 Lost Communication With Steering Effort Control Module

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

U0130 is logged when a controller on the network stops hearing the steering effort control module, which varies how much assistance the driver gets at the wheel, usually depending on road speed. Saab's 2011 9-5 code list maps U0130 to its electric power steering control module and adds failure-type bytes 71 (data not valid), 72 (message counter wrong) and 74 (checksum error), while a separate power steering module keeps U0131. Ford reports U0130 in the battery energy control module of the 2012–2018 Focus Electric after a high-voltage battery swap and clears it with a programmable module installation, without naming the partner. Expect a steering warning and possibly heavier steering; no public MIL rule exists.

Likely causes

Fuse, supply or ground of the steering effort module missing
Damaged CAN wiring or loose connector at the steering module
Module configuration or software not matched after a repair (e.g. Ford after HV battery replacement)
Steering effort module internally faulty

Symptoms

  • Steering system warning lamp or message
  • Steering feels heavier or no longer adapts to speed
  • Further communication codes stored in several modules

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€60–1,500
Time0.5–4 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

steering effort modulecan bus wiring

Related codes

U0319U0131U0126U0420

References: saabwisonline.com, static.nhtsa.gov, law.cornell.edu.