U0144

Universal

Lost Communication With Body Control Module D

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 module identified as Body Control Module D over the vehicle network. The BCM manages various body-related functions, but this code does not prove that the module itself has failed. Depending on the vehicle, there may be no noticeable effects or some body functions may work intermittently or stop working.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

The code alone does not mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive. If exterior lights, windshield wipers, or another function needed for safe driving is not working, do not drive until it is repaired. Stop driving if another fault makes the vehicle unsafe, and arrange qualified diagnosis.

Common Symptoms

  • There may be no noticeable symptoms if communication loss was brief or the affected functions are not currently needed.
  • Body functions managed by the affected module may stop working or operate intermittently; which functions are involved depends on the vehicle.
  • A warning light or communication message may appear if other vehicle modules detect that they cannot receive information from Body Control Module D.
  • A scan tool may be unable to communicate with the identified module while the fault is present.

Common Causes

  • A loose, damaged, or corroded connector or network wire can interrupt communication.
  • A power-supply or ground problem may prevent the module from operating or communicating.
  • Low vehicle battery voltage or an interruption in vehicle power may contribute to a communication fault.
  • Another network fault or module may be disrupting communication.
  • Body Control Module D may have an internal fault, but this should be considered only after its power, ground, connectors, and network circuits are checked.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Note any warning messages and body functions that are not working or are intermittent; this helps relate the code to the affected system.
  2. If you have a suitable scan tool, check whether the code is current or stored and note any related codes from other modules.
  3. With the vehicle parked and switched off, visually check the battery terminals and accessible wiring or connectors for looseness or visible damage. Do not probe network wires or disconnect components without vehicle-specific instructions.
  4. Using the owner's manual, check whether a relevant fuse appears damaged. If a replacement fuse fails again, stop and have the circuit diagnosed rather than fitting a larger fuse.
  5. If essential lights, wipers, or other safety-related body functions are not working, do not drive the vehicle; arrange professional diagnosis.

When to Call a Professional

Use a scan tool capable of communicating with the vehicle's modules. Check whether this code is current or stored, and review other module codes for related communication or power-supply faults. A technician can verify the BCM's power and ground circuits and inspect network wiring and connectors using vehicle-specific service information before considering module replacement.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Does U0144 mean Body Control Module D needs replacement?

No. It indicates lost communication, not a confirmed module failure. Power, ground, connector, wiring, battery, or broader network problems can also cause communication loss.

Can this code appear without obvious symptoms?

Yes. Communication may have been interrupted briefly, or the functions associated with the module may not be in use when the code is detected.

What does the D in Body Control Module D identify?

It is part of the module designation in this code. Its exact meaning and the functions associated with it depend on the vehicle's design.

What should be checked before replacing a module?

Check related codes and verify the module's power, ground, connectors, and network communication using service information for the exact vehicle.

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