Network, generic

U0538 Invalid Data Received From Digital Audio Control Module C

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

Digital audio control modules are the networked parts of a sound system such as amplifiers, signal processors or media interfaces; the letters A to D merely count them. Ford groups U0237 and U0238, the lost-communication codes for modules C and D, with DSP trouble: 2020–2021 Escape, 2021 F-150, Mach-E, Expedition, Explorer and 2020–2022 Edge could lose all sound while chimes moved to the cluster, cured by a battery-disconnect reset and DSP reprogramming (SSM 49737, 50739, 51778). GM's Saab 9-5 list gives the C partner slot to the multimedia player interface module instead. U0538 itself appears in no bulletin; it means module C still communicates but its audio status or configuration content is rejected, which can mute zones or drop sources.

Likely causes

Audio module software fault, as in Ford's DSP cases
Module C internally faulty
Poor fuse contact or low supply voltage at the module

Symptoms

  • No sound or missing speaker channels
  • Warning chimes only from the instrument cluster

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€0–900
Time0.5–2.5 h

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

Parts involved

digital audio module c

Related codes

U0539U0494U0495U0487

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