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DTC codes / U01xx · Lost communication with a control module / U019E

U019ELost Communication With Transmission Range Control Module

U019E is a generic network communication code indicating that one or more control modules have stopped receiving messages from the Transmission Range Control Module over the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. The detecting module sets this code when the expected periodic data frames from the range control module are missing for a calibrated time, which can be caused by a power, ground, wiring, or module fault rather than a transmission mechanical failure.

SystemNetwork
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyProfessional
AreaLost communication with a control module

Symptoms you may notice

  • The check engine light, transmission warning light, or both illuminate on the dashboard.
  • The gear indicator may flash, show a blank display, or fail to show the selected range.
  • The vehicle may start in limp mode, default to a single gear, or refuse to shift out of park.
  • Remote start, push-button start, or reverse camera activation may be intermittent or inoperative.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with the vehicle driving and shifting normally.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. A weak or failing battery, poor battery terminal connection, or low charging system voltage disrupting module communication.
  2. Blown fuse or corroded fuse box terminals supplying power to the Transmission Range Control Module.
  3. Damaged, chafed, or corroded wiring in the CAN bus circuit between the range control module and the detecting module.
  4. A faulty Transmission Range Control Module, including internal circuit board faults or water intrusion.
  5. Poor ground connection at the range control module or at a shared body ground point.
  6. A separate module on the same CAN bus segment failing and disrupting network traffic.
  7. Software calibration issues in the range control module or the detecting module that require reprogramming.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Perform a full battery and charging system test, including load testing the battery and checking for voltage drops at the terminals.
  2. Check all fuses and relays that supply power to the Transmission Range Control Module, and inspect the fuse box for corrosion.
  3. Inspect the CAN bus wiring and connectors at the range control module for chafing, corrosion, or loose pins, and perform a wiggle test while watching live data.
  4. Measure resistance to ground at the range control module ground circuit and clean or repair any poor ground connections.
  5. Use a scan tool to check for communication with the range control module and compare live data from related modules to confirm the loss of signal.
  6. If wiring and power are good, substitute a known-good module or perform a module reprogramming procedure according to the manufacturer's service information.
  7. After repairs, clear the code and verify communication by driving the vehicle through all gear ranges and confirming the code does not return.

Why a range module code is rarely the module

  • A low or failing battery is one of the most common causes of U019E because modules drop offline when voltage sags during cranking or under load.
  • The code does not mean the transmission range control module is defective; it only reports that messages from that module are missing, and the fault often lies in power, ground, or wiring.
  • Water intrusion or corrosion at the range control module connector, especially on vehicles with underbody exposure, can interrupt CAN communication without any visible external damage.
  • A different module on the same CAN bus segment that is shorting or failing can disrupt network traffic and cause U019E to set even though the range control module itself is healthy.
  • After replacing a module, some vehicles require a relearn or configuration procedure, and skipping it can leave the code stored or cause new communication faults.

Can I keep driving with U019E?

If the vehicle drives and shifts normally, you can drive it to a repair shop, but avoid long trips and do not ignore a flashing warning light. If the transmission is in limp mode, will not shift, or the vehicle will not start, stop driving and have it towed to prevent further damage.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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