U1900 Ford Code: CAN Communication Bus Fault

Discover the ins and outs of the U1900 Ford code with our expert guidance.

If you own a Ford vehicle and have encountered this code, understanding its meaning, severity, symptoms, causes, and the necessary steps for diagnosis and repair is crucial.

You’re in good hands! Count on our experience and expertise as we provide you with valuable insights to help you deal with the code.

So, let’s dive in!

U1900 Code on Ford: An Overview

Here’s a brief overview of the U1900 Ford code:

Definition: CAN Communication Bus Fault (Receive Error)
Severity: Low
DIY Skill Level: Intermediate
Continue To Drive?: Yes
Estimated Repair Cost: $0-$200

U1900 Ford Code Meaning: What Does It Signify?

The U1900 code on Ford indicates a failure in the communication bus. When the bus fails to receive a specific error or cannot relay that message to the powertrain control module (PCM), it triggers this error code. This can be caused by a communication failure between various components within the system.

In certain cases, this code is commonly found in models such as the Expedition, Explorer, F150, F250, and Focus. The CAN (Controller Area Network) serial communication system connects all the control modules in a Ford vehicle. However, U1900 primarily refers to communication failures within the circuits connecting the PCM, ABS control module, and instrument cluster. If any of these parts fail to transmit their signals to the PCM, the U1900 code may appear.

Note: The Ford U1900 code can occasionally be a “ghost code,” appearing when connecting a scanner to the data link connector with the ignition on or while the engine is running.

U1900 Ford Code Severity: Assessing Its Impact

The severity level of the U1900 fault code is low to medium. Many experienced mechanics and vehicle owners have reported that this code does not pose a significant concern.

In fact, it is often considered a “ghost code” (as noted above) or a result of the diagnostics process itself rather than an actual fault. However, it is worth mentioning that there might be other Ford-specific stored codes that may not be detected by a generic code reader.

Considering the widespread occurrence of this code and the general consensus among owners, there is no immediate cause for alarm. If your vehicle displays the U1900 code only without any apparent performance or drivability problems, it is generally safe to continue driving. However, it is advisable to monitor the vehicle’s performance and address any other related codes or symptoms that may arise.

U1900 Ford Code Symptoms: What To Look Out For

The U1900 Ford code typically does not cause specific symptoms or drivability issues on its own. However, in worst cases, it may be accompanied by these signs:

Illumination of the check engine light and other dashboard lights like the ABS light or AWD light
4WD system malfunction (common in 4WD-equipped Ford applications)
Potential no-start condition (especially on F-series trucks)

Exploring U1900 Ford Code Causes

Common causes of the U1900 code include:

Loose wiring connections
Communication failure within the CAN system
Faulty ABS control module
Malfunctioning instrument cluster (possible racks in joints, connector pins, or pads on the printed circuit board)
Issues with the trailer brake controller

U1900 Ford Code Diagnosis And Repair

If you’re sure that the U1900 code is not a “ghost code” and it is affecting your driving experience, follow these steps to address the issue effectively.

Essential Tools And Parts

OBD-II scanner
Multimeter
Wiring diagram for the vehicle
Electrical contact cleaner
Replacement wiring connectors (if necessary)
Diagnostic manual for the specific vehicle model

Step-by-Step Guide

Connect the OBD-II scanner and retrieve any stored codes.
Inspect the wiring connections related to the U1900 code.
Use a multimeter to check for continuity and proper voltage levels.
Check for loose or damaged wiring connectors and repair or replace them as needed.
Inspect the ABS control module, instrument cluster, and trailer brake controller for any visible signs of damage or malfunction.
Clean the electrical contacts and ensure proper connections.
Perform a thorough inspection of the CAN bus system and related components.
If necessary, consult the vehicle’s diagnostic manual for specific troubleshooting steps.

Let’s see how to fix the U1900 code on a Ford Focus.

DIY Repair Level And Estimated Costs

The DIY repair level for the U1900 Ford fault code is moderate to advanced. You can try basic troubleshooting and inspections, but seeking professional assistance is advisable for complex electrical systems.

The estimated costs for repairing the U1900 code may vary depending on the specific cause and required repairs. Costs can range from minimal expenses for simple wiring repairs to higher expenses if components like the ABS control module or instrument cluster need replacement.

Here is a rough cost estimate for common repair tasks:

Repair Task	Cost Range
Wiring repairs	$50 – $200
ABS control module replacement	$200 – $600
Instrument cluster replacement	$300 – $800
Trailer brake controller replacement	$100 – $400

Please keep in mind that these cost ranges are approximate and can vary depending on various factors, such as the specific vehicle model, location, and labor rates. Consult a qualified mechanic or technician to get an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate for your vehicle.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the U1900 Ford fault code is generally not a big problem – if you have insights and knowledge about it.

You can fix the code and get everything back to normal by following the steps we’ve provided. If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical systems, it’s best to ask for help from a professional.

We hope this guide has been helpful to you. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below!

Reference Sources

JustAnswer, U1900+dtc.pdf.
Vehicle History, What does the Ford C-Max fault code U1900 mean?
ACTRONICS LTD, Ford Focus instrument cluster – U1900 fault.
TroubleCodes.net, U1900 – CAN Communication Bus Fault.
FORScan forum, U1900 – CAN communication bus fault
JustAnswer, Fix U1900 code.
Ford Owners Club, U1900 code, I’ve tried everything.