U0133
UniversalLost Communication With Active Roll Control Module
A vehicle control module expected messages from the active roll control module but did not receive them. This system can adjust the vehicle’s resistance to body roll. The fault may disable active roll control or trigger a warning; the code identifies a communication problem, not proof that the module itself has failed.
⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)
If a warning appears or handling feels different, drive cautiously and avoid high speeds or abrupt maneuvers until the vehicle is checked. Stop in a safe place and arrange service if the vehicle feels unstable or difficult to control. Exact system behavior depends on the vehicle.
Common Symptoms
- An active roll control, suspension, or stability-related warning may appear if the vehicle reports that the module is unavailable.
- Active roll control may be disabled, which can change how much the vehicle leans during cornering.
- Handling may feel different if the system is not operating; the effect depends on the vehicle and its fallback strategy.
- There may be no noticeable symptoms if the communication interruption is intermittent or the vehicle continues operating without the system.
Common Causes
- Loss of power or ground to the active roll control module can prevent it from communicating.
- A loose, damaged, or corroded connector or wire may interrupt module power or network messages.
- A fault elsewhere on the vehicle communication network may prevent messages from reaching or leaving the module.
- Low or unstable vehicle voltage can interfere with module operation or communication.
- The active roll control module itself may have an internal fault, but this code alone does not confirm that.
Diagnostic Steps
- Note any warning messages and whether the vehicle’s handling has changed; avoid testing the system with abrupt maneuvers.
- With the vehicle safely parked, check the battery terminals for looseness or visible corrosion. Do not disconnect the battery unless the vehicle’s instructions support doing so.
- Check the owner’s manual for any relevant fuse locations and inspect only fuses that can be safely accessed; replace a fuse only with the specified type and rating.
- Look for visible damage to accessible wiring near the active roll control system, but do not unplug module connectors or probe network wires.
- If a suitable scan tool is available, record codes from all modules before clearing anything. Have a qualified technician diagnose persistent communication faults using vehicle-specific information.
When to Call a Professional
Use a scan tool that can communicate with all vehicle modules to check for related network, power, and communication codes. A technician can then check the active roll control module’s power and ground, inspect its wiring and connectors, and test network communication using vehicle-specific service information. Do not replace the module based on this code alone.
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Commonly Asked Questions
Does U0133 prove the active roll control module is faulty?
No. The code indicates lost communication with the module. A power, ground, wiring, connector, or broader network problem can produce the same condition.
Can I keep driving with this code?
If there are no warnings or handling changes, the vehicle may remain controllable, but active roll control could be unavailable. Drive cautiously and arrange diagnosis. Stop safely and seek assistance if the vehicle feels unstable or difficult to control.
Why might there be a warning but no obvious handling change?
The system may be unavailable while the vehicle’s remaining systems continue to provide their normal functions. The effect of losing active roll control varies by vehicle.
What should be checked before replacing a module?
A technician should check related codes, module power and ground, connectors and wiring, and network communication. Vehicle-specific service information is needed for the applicable tests.
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