U0198

Lost Communication With Telematic Control Module

Q: Is it safe to drive with U0198?

Yes for normal driving. Note that emergency auto-call features may be down, so don't count on them until it's fixed.

Q: Can I just clear U0198?

You can, but it returns while the module is offline; the wiring or module fault has to be addressed.

Communication / telematics Generic OBD-II Low

What it means

U0198 sets when a module loses communication with the telematics control module — the unit behind connected services like emergency calling, remote start/unlock, and vehicle tracking. The car drives normally, but those connected and safety-call features may not work until it's restored. On some vehicles automatic crash notification depends on this module.

Low

Can I keep driving? Yes — only connected services (emergency calling, remote features, tracking) are affected; the vehicle drives normally.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

143

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of U0198 scans

U0146in 46.1% of scans

B1522in 37.1% of scans

P1FC0in 37.1% of scans

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Connected services (remote start/unlock, app features) not working
Emergency/SOS calling unavailable
Telematics module unreachable by a scan tool
Warning or message about connected services

Common causes

Most likely first

Loss of power or ground to the telematics moduleLikely
Damaged wiring or connector at the moduleCommon
Bus fault between the telematics module and the networkCommon
Antenna or subscription/activation issue (varies by system)Less often
Failed telematics control moduleLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Scan all modules and confirm the telematics unit is offline.
Check the module's power, ground, and connector.
Inspect the bus wiring between the telematics module and the network.
Verify the module's software and activation status where applicable.
Repair the wiring or replace and program the telematics module, then clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with U0198?+

Yes for normal driving. Note that emergency auto-call features may be down, so don't count on them until it's fixed.

Can I just clear U0198?+

You can, but it returns while the module is offline; the wiring or module fault has to be addressed.

Read & clear U0198 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX