Network, generic

U0197 Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

U0197 says the telephone control module, in most cars the Bluetooth hands-free unit, has gone quiet on the bus. FCA uses it widely under the name Hands Free Phone Module. Bulletin 08-112-14 covers 2013-2015 Town & Country, Grand Caravan, Compass, Patriot and Wrangler plus 2013-2014 Challenger, Avenger and 200 with Bluetooth not working; new HFM software loaded over USB cures it. Bulletin 08-083-19 (Journey 2012-2019, Charger and 300 2012-2014) adds that the MIL may come on with U0197-00 when the module fails to boot or no longer shows up in the wiTECH network view; a reflash is the fix. GM's Saab lists call it the telephone control module. Hands-free calls and voice control drop out. U0198 is the telematics unit, U0498 invalid data.

Likely causes

Hands-free module software hangs at boot (FCA update)
Module without power or ground
Bus line or connector to the phone module faulty
Telephone control module faulty

Symptoms

  • Phone does not pair or calls are not possible hands-free
  • Display reports the hands-free module is still loading
  • MIL on in some FCA models

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€0–500
Time0.5–2 h

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

Parts involved

hands free modulecan bus wiring

Related codes

U0184U0198U0498

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