U016A

Universal

Lost Communication With Global Positioning System Module

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

The vehicle has detected that other control modules are not receiving expected communications from the GPS module. That module provides location information, so navigation or other location-dependent features may not work correctly. This code identifies a communication problem; it does not by itself prove the GPS module has failed.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

This code alone usually does not indicate an immediate driving hazard. Navigation and location-dependent services may be unavailable, so do not rely on them for directions or emergency location. If other warning lights, drivability problems, or safety-system messages appear, stop somewhere safe and arrange an assessment.

Common Symptoms

  • Navigation may show no position, an incorrect position, or a position that stops updating if the vehicle depends on this module for location data.
  • Location-dependent connected features may be unavailable or may report incomplete location information.
  • A warning message or diagnostic code may appear, depending on the vehicle.
  • There may be no noticeable symptoms if GPS-based features are not being used or the vehicle has another source of location information.

Common Causes

  • The GPS module may have lost power or ground because of a supply, fuse, connection, or wiring problem.
  • A loose, damaged, or corroded connector or wire may interrupt communication.
  • A fault in the vehicle communication network or another connected module may prevent messages from reaching the GPS module.
  • Low or unstable vehicle voltage may interrupt module operation or communication.
  • The GPS module may have an internal fault, or vehicle-specific configuration or software may need attention.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Check whether navigation or other location-dependent features are affected, and note any related dashboard messages. This helps establish what the communication loss is affecting.
  2. Check the owner’s manual for relevant fuse information and inspect only accessible fuses using the manual’s guidance. Replace a fuse only with the specified type and rating; if it blows again, seek diagnosis.
  3. With the vehicle safely parked and switched off, visually inspect accessible GPS-module connectors and wiring for looseness or visible damage. Do not force trim or disconnect unfamiliar connectors.
  4. If a scan tool is available, check for communication or low-voltage codes in other modules and record them before clearing anything. Related codes can help identify a shared power or network issue.
  5. If the code persists, avoid replacing the GPS module based on this code alone. Have a technician test the relevant power, ground, and network circuits using vehicle-specific service information.

When to Call a Professional

Scan all modules for related communication and power-supply codes, then use vehicle-specific wiring information to check the GPS module’s power, ground, connectors, and network communication. Distinguish a communication loss from poor satellite reception: antenna or reception problems do not necessarily cause this code. Confirm any repair by checking that communication is restored and the code does not return.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Does U016A prove that the GPS module needs replacement?

No. It indicates lost communication, which can also result from a power, ground, connector, wiring, or network problem. Testing is needed before replacing a module.

Is this the same as poor GPS reception?

Not necessarily. Poor reception concerns the GPS signal from satellites; this code concerns communication with the GPS module. A reception or antenna issue alone may not cause a communication code.

Can I keep driving with this code?

The code alone usually does not affect basic vehicle operation, but navigation and location-dependent services may not work. Follow any other warning messages and have additional drivability or safety-system symptoms checked promptly.

Why might there be no obvious symptoms?

The vehicle may not currently use GPS-based features, or other systems may continue operating without location information. A scan can still reveal the communication fault.

Browse Available Code Guides

Previous and next available guides in database record order, across makes. Adjacent entries may share a code number and do not necessarily describe related faults.