U0134

Universal

Lost Communication With Power Steering Control Module Rear

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

The vehicle has detected that it cannot communicate with the rear power steering control module over the vehicle network. That module manages a power-steering function, so the effect may range from no noticeable change to a warning or altered steering behavior, depending on the vehicle.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

If steering becomes unusually heavy, unpredictable, or otherwise difficult to control, stop somewhere safe and arrange professional help rather than continuing to drive. If steering feels normal, have the code diagnosed promptly; the exact risk depends on which functions this module controls on your vehicle.

Common Symptoms

  • There may be no noticeable symptoms if the affected function is not currently apparent or the communication loss is intermittent.
  • A steering-system warning or related message may appear if the vehicle detects that the module is unavailable.
  • Steering behavior or assistance may change if a function managed by the rear power steering control module is affected.
  • Other communication-related warning lights or stored codes may appear if the fault also affects network communication with other modules.

Common Causes

  • The rear power steering control module may have lost its power supply or ground connection.
  • A loose, damaged, corroded, or otherwise poor connection at the module or along its wiring may interrupt communication.
  • A fault in the vehicle communication network or another connected module may prevent messages from reaching or leaving this module.
  • The rear power steering control module itself may have an internal fault, but the code alone does not establish that it needs replacement.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Note any steering changes and warning messages. If steering is difficult or unpredictable, stop driving and arrange assistance.
  2. Check the owner's manual for relevant steering-system warnings and whether the vehicle should be driven with them present.
  3. With the vehicle safely parked and switched off, visually inspect accessible wiring and connectors related to the rear power steering system for obvious damage or loose connections. Do not disconnect components unless the vehicle-specific procedure says it is safe.
  4. Have the vehicle scanned for codes in all modules, not just the engine controller, and record related codes before clearing anything.
  5. If the code returns or steering behavior is affected, have a qualified technician test the module's power, ground, wiring, and network communication using vehicle-specific procedures.

When to Call a Professional

A technician can scan all modules for related communication and voltage codes, then check the module's power, ground, connectors, wiring, and network communication using vehicle-specific service information. Confirm the cause before replacing the module; another module, a wiring fault, or a power-supply issue can also interrupt communication.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Does U0134 prove that the rear power steering control module has failed?

No. It indicates lost communication with that module, but a power or ground problem, wiring or connector fault, or network issue can cause the same detected condition.

Can the vehicle still be driven with this code?

It depends on the vehicle and whether steering behavior is affected. Do not continue driving if steering becomes unusually heavy, unpredictable, or difficult to control; otherwise, arrange prompt diagnosis and follow any vehicle warnings.

Why might there be no noticeable symptoms?

The communication loss may be intermittent, or the affected function may not produce an obvious change under current driving conditions. The code still warrants diagnosis.

What should be checked before replacing the module?

Check related codes and verify the module's power, ground, connectors, wiring, and network communication using procedures for the specific vehicle.

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