Network, generic

U046B Invalid Data Received From Global Positioning System Module

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

U046B indicates that position, speed or time data from the global positioning system module fail plausibility in a receiving unit: a corrupt frame, a counter that stalls, or coordinates that cannot match the movement the car measures through its wheel speeds. The receiver feeds navigation, telematics, emergency call and map-based assistance. At Ford the telematics control unit evidently plays this role: according to SSM 54351, Transit vans of model year 2026 that lack a TCU can store the lost-contact twin U016A in a secondary OBD module, with no repair needed. A similar note for U046B does not exist; no manufacturer documents U046B publicly. U0464 covers bad data from the navigation unit, U0198 lost contact with the telematics module. The map position drifts or freezes; driving is unaffected, no MIL.

Likely causes

Damaged GPS antenna, cable or connector giving poor or jumping fixes
Software fault in the GPS or telematics module
Low battery voltage or poor ground at the module
Internal fault in the GPS module

Symptoms

  • Vehicle position on the map is wrong, jumps or freezes
  • Connected services or emergency call show no location
  • Clock or time zone set incorrectly

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€0–800
Time0.5–2 h

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

Parts involved

gps module

Related codes

U016AU0464U0198

References: static.nhtsa.gov, en.wikipedia.org, autosar.org.