Network, generic

U0143 Lost Communication With Body Control Module C

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

With U0143 a listener reports that body controller C has gone quiet. The letter only means a third body unit; its role is set by the maker. Ford is the one maker found using the code publicly: on the 2021 F-150 the trailer module stores U0143:87, the suffix marking a missing message, because of software parameters in that module. Ford's SSM 50217 calls it harmless, with no warning or drivability effect, and announced an over-the-air update of the trailer module from March 2022. So on these trucks a lone U0143 in the trailer module is no reason to replace anything. Elsewhere the usual network rule applies: a supervised periodic message from module C is missing while supply voltage is valid. U0140 to U0142 cover the other body modules, U0444 invalid data from C.

Likely causes

Software parameters in the listening module (Ford F-150 trailer module)
Power, fuse or ground of module C missing
Bus line or connector to module C damaged
Body module C internally faulty

Symptoms

  • Often none; code found only during a scan
  • Functions of module C (for example trailer-related outputs) unavailable
  • Scan tool cannot reach module C

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€0–600
Time0.2–3 h

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

Parts involved

body control modulecan bus wiring

Related codes

U0140U0141U0142U0444

References: static.nhtsa.gov, saabwisonline.com, en.wikipedia.org.