OBD-II trouble code
U0163: Lost Communication With Navigation Control Module
Another module on the network has stopped receiving messages from the navigation control module — the unit that computes position and routing. Usually a power, ground, wiring, or module fault.
Quick facts
- System
- Network
- Category
- Network Communication
- Severity
- Low severity
- Drivable
- Usually safe to drive short-term
- Repair cost range
- $100 – $1,200
- DIY difficulty
- Advanced DIY
What does U0163 mean?
U0163 is a module-specific network code that sets when a control module stops hearing from the navigation control module on the communication bus. While the navigation display (U0162) is the screen-side unit, the navigation control module is the brain behind it: it processes GPS position, vehicle speed and heading, map data, and route calculations, then sends the results onto the network. On many vehicles this function is integrated into the infotainment head unit; on others it is a separate computing module. When its messages disappear from the bus, the listening module logs U0163.
Unlike a generic bus fault, U0163 names the missing component: the network reports that the navigation control module specifically has gone silent. That can happen because the module lost power or ground, because the wiring to it is damaged, or because the module itself has failed. It can also be a downstream symptom of a wider bus problem, in which case other U-codes are usually stored at the same time.
In practice U0163 typically shows up as navigation that won't calculate routes, a missing or stuck vehicle position, no GPS lock, or a navigation system that is unavailable even though the screen still powers up. The vehicle drives normally and no safety system is affected, so this is generally a low-urgency code. It's worth repairing so navigation works again, and because the same power or wiring fault can affect other connected features such as telematics or voice services that rely on position data.
Common causes
- Blown fuse or lost power feed to the navigation control module
- Poor or corroded ground at the module
- Damaged, chafed, or corroded CAN wiring between the module and the bus
- Corroded or backed-out terminals at the module connector
- Software fault, corrupted firmware, or a module that needs a reset/update
- Internally failed navigation control or host infotainment module
- A wider CAN bus fault dragging this module off the network
Symptoms
- Navigation unavailable or won't calculate a route
- No GPS lock, or vehicle position missing/stuck on the map
- Voice, telematics, or connected features that rely on position may drop out
- Possible warning message about a navigation system fault
- Additional lost-communication U-codes if a wider bus fault is present
Diagnostic steps
- 1.Scan all modules and record every stored code; several U-codes suggest a bus-wide fault rather than just the navigation control module.
- 2.Confirm power and ground at the navigation control module with the key on — check the feed fuse and verify a clean, tight ground.
- 3.Inspect the module connector and harness for corrosion, water intrusion, backed-out terminals, and chafing.
- 4.Check the CAN wiring from the module to the bus for continuity and for shorts to power or ground.
- 5.Check for available software/firmware updates or a known reset procedure for the navigation/infotainment system.
- 6.Clear the codes and recheck whether U0163 returns and whether the module reappears on the scan tool; if power, ground, wiring, and software are good, suspect an internally failed module.
Repair cost
$100 – $1,200
Diagnosis usually runs $100-$200. A power, ground, or wiring repair is often $120-$400. A software update or reset may resolve it cheaply. If the navigation control or host infotainment module is internally failed, replacement and programming can run $500-$1,200+ depending on the vehicle.
Estimate your repair
Run the numbers for your vehicle
Open the Repair Cost Estimator with module communication / can bus diagnosis preselected. Adjust labor rate and vehicle category to fit your situation.
DIY vs shop
This is an advanced DIY job. It typically requires specialty tools, scan-tool access, lifting equipment, or careful sequencing to avoid causing new failures. Plan for extended downtime and have a backup vehicle. Most owners are better served by a shop that has done this repair before.