Network, generic

U0151 Lost Communication With Restraints Control Module

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

U0151 means the airbag control module, which reads crash sensors and fires airbags and belt pretensioners, no longer reaches a listener. Names vary: GM and Saab say sensing and diagnostic module, FCA occupant restraint controller, Honda SRS unit. GM's 2025 ECM allows most of its messages a gap of about 10 s and rates the loss Type C without MIL; the brake controller reacts after 100 or 250 ms, also Type C. The airbag lamp is the usual warning. Exceptions exist: on the 2024 electric Dodge Charger U0151 comes with the MIL and a car stuck in Park until the controller gets new software (08-015-26). On 2008-10 Accords the gauge module sets it when the SRS unit has failed, covered by a 15-year warranty extension; on 2018-20 Mazda CX-3s a stalled head-up display blocked the CAN bus and left U0151 in the ABS unit.

Likely causes

Airbag module fuse, ground or connector faulty (often under the seat or centre console)
Airbag control module internally failed (Honda Accord 2008-10)
Airbag module software needs updating (Dodge Charger 2024)
Another node blocks the bus, for example a faulty head-up display (Mazda CX-3)

Symptoms

  • Airbag warning lamp stays on
  • Airbags may not deploy in a crash if the module has failed
  • Several warning lamps or MIL on (Dodge Charger 2024)
  • Scan tool cannot communicate with the airbag module

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€60–1,200
Time0.5–4 h

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

Parts involved

restraints control modulecan bus wiring

Related codes

U0152U0153U0154U0452

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov.