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DTC codes / U05xx · Network communication / U0571

U0571Invalid Data Received From Image Processing Sensor L

U0571 is a communication fault indicating that a control module received invalid or corrupted data from the image processing sensor labeled 'L', which is typically a camera or vision processor used for driver assistance features. The computer detected that the data stream from this sensor failed its integrity or plausibility checks, so it flagged the message as unusable rather than acting on faulty information.

SystemNetwork
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaNetwork communication

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) or a dedicated driver assistance warning light
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the affected sensor supports a non-critical feature
  • Inoperative or degraded lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, or collision avoidance functions
  • A message on the driver information center stating that a camera or sensor is unavailable
  • Intermittent operation of driver assistance features, particularly in poor weather or low light
  • Possible stored codes in other modules that rely on the image processing sensor for data

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Corroded, loose, or damaged electrical connector at the image processing sensor or its inline harness
  2. Chafed or open wiring in the sensor circuit, often near a hinge, grommet, or moving component
  3. Failed image processing sensor or camera module due to internal electronics fault or contamination
  4. Software or calibration error in the sensor or the receiving module after a battery replacement or windshield service
  5. Low system voltage or a weak battery causing intermittent communication faults across the network
  6. Water intrusion into the sensor housing or connector, leading to signal corruption
  7. A faulty gateway module or controller area network (CAN) bus issue that corrupts messages from multiple sensors

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Connect a scan tool and record all stored codes in every module, then clear codes and test-drive to see if U0571 returns immediately or intermittently
  2. Inspect the image processing sensor connector and harness for corrosion, loose pins, or physical damage, and clean or repair as needed
  3. Check battery voltage and charging system output, as low voltage can cause spurious communication codes
  4. Perform a wiggle test on the sensor harness while monitoring live data for the sensor signal to identify intermittent wiring faults
  5. Verify that the sensor is properly mounted and its lens is clean and unobstructed, then check for any required calibration or software update
  6. If wiring and power are good, substitute a known-good image processing sensor of the same part number to confirm the fault
  7. After repair, clear codes and perform any required calibration or relearn procedure for the driver assistance system

What the image processing sensor code hides

  • A dirty or obstructed camera lens can cause the sensor to output invalid data that the receiving module flags as U0571, so always clean the lens before condemning the sensor.
  • Many vehicles set U0571 after a windshield replacement because the camera behind the glass was disturbed or not recalibrated, and the code persists until a proper static or dynamic calibration is performed.
  • This code often appears alongside U0570 or U0572 for other image processing sensors, which points to a shared power, ground, or network fault rather than a single failed camera.
  • Intermittent U0571 that sets only in wet weather usually indicates water intrusion at a connector or a chafed wire that shorts when moisture is present, not a failing sensor.
  • Some modules log U0571 as a history code after a brief low-voltage event during engine cranking, and it may never return once the battery is healthy.

Can I keep driving with U0571?

The vehicle remains safe to drive because the fault affects driver assistance features rather than core engine or braking functions, but you should not rely on lane keeping, adaptive cruise, or collision avoidance until the code is repaired. Avoid long trips in poor visibility or heavy traffic where those systems would normally assist, and have the fault diagnosed soon to prevent further communication issues.

Tools that help

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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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