U0110

Universal

Lost Communication With Drive Motor Control Module

Definition source: General OBD-II reference catalog
Definition verification: Not independently verified for display.
Time: Varies by diagnosis and vehicle | Diagnostic difficulty: Medium
High Severity

The vehicle has detected that expected network messages from the drive motor control module are missing. That module helps control the drive motor, so the fault may affect starting, propulsion, or power delivery. The code does not prove the module itself has failed; a power, ground, wiring, connector, or network problem can also interrupt communication.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

If the vehicle loses power, will not enter a safe drive-ready state, or behaves unpredictably, stop in a safe place and arrange assistance rather than continuing to drive. Do not handle high-voltage components or wiring; have those checks performed by a qualified technician.

Common Symptoms

  • No noticeable symptoms may occur if the communication interruption was temporary or the vehicle can continue operating with limited functions.
  • A warning light or message may appear if the vehicle detects that the drive motor control module is unavailable.
  • The vehicle may fail to start or enter its drive-ready state if required control messages are unavailable.
  • Reduced power or loss of propulsion may occur if the vehicle cannot reliably coordinate drive motor operation.

Common Causes

  • An intermittent or poor electrical connection at a relevant connector can interrupt communication.
  • Damaged, open, or shorted network wiring can prevent messages from reaching the drive motor control module.
  • A power supply or ground problem can make the module unavailable to the vehicle network.
  • A weak or unstable 12-volt electrical supply may disrupt module operation or communication.
  • A fault elsewhere on the vehicle communication network may interfere with messages.
  • The drive motor control module may have an internal fault, but this should be considered only after its circuits and network connection are checked.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Note any warning messages, starting or drive-ready problems, or loss of power, and avoid driving if propulsion is unreliable.
  2. Check the 12-volt battery for obvious looseness or corrosion at accessible terminals; a poor connection can affect module communication.
  3. With the vehicle off, visually inspect only accessible, low-voltage wiring and connectors for looseness, damage, or corrosion. Do not disconnect or probe high-voltage wiring or orange cables.
  4. If the code returns or the vehicle has driveability symptoms, arrange a professional scan of all modules and vehicle-specific electrical testing.

When to Call a Professional

A technician can scan all vehicle modules to see whether other communication faults are present, check the 12-volt supply and grounds, and test the relevant network wiring and connectors using vehicle-specific service information. The drive motor control module should not be replaced until its power, grounds, and communication path have been checked. High-voltage system work requires appropriate training and procedures.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Does U0110 prove the drive motor control module is defective?

No. It reports lost communication with that module. Power, ground, connector, wiring, or a wider network problem can cause the same condition.

Can the vehicle still be driven with U0110?

Sometimes there may be no obvious symptom, but the fault can affect starting or propulsion. Do not continue if power is reduced, the vehicle will not operate normally, or it behaves unpredictably.

Why should other modules be scanned too?

Other communication codes can help distinguish a problem limited to this module from a power-supply or wider network fault.

Can I test the drive motor module wiring myself?

Limit DIY checks to accessible low-voltage connections and visual inspection. Network testing and any high-voltage work should follow vehicle-specific procedures and be handled by a qualified technician.

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