Network, generic

U0184 Lost Communication With Radio

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

U0184 is logged when the radio or infotainment head unit no longer answers on the bus; cluster, gateway, HVAC or amplifier store it, often several at once. GM bulletin 16-NA-115 (many 2014 GM models) reprograms the radio when it stays silent, shows a dark display or fails to wake up. Ford SSM 49695 (F-Super Duty 2020-2021) first rules out transport mode, then pulls fuse F32 in the BCM for five minutes before reseating the audio module connector. Stellantis case S2208000124 notes that the code can set when the radio wakes late on the audio CAN bus and to inspect the security gateway terminals before replacing anything. The Saab 9-5 list carries it too. Sound, display and phone functions fail; no MIL. U0186 is the amplifier.

Likely causes

Radio software hang or wake-up problem, fixed by reset or reprogramming (GM, Ford)
Spread or pushed-out terminals at radio or security gateway (Stellantis)
Vehicle still in transport mode (Ford)
Radio or head unit faulty

Symptoms

  • Radio dead, screen blank or no sound
  • Phone, reversing camera or voice control not available
  • U0184 stored in several modules

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€0–1,200
Time0.2–3 h

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

Parts involved

radio modulecan bus wiring

Related codes

U0485U0334U0186U0185U0195

References: static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, saabwisonline.com.