U0126: Lost Communication with Steering Angle Sensor Module
The Steering Angle Sensor Module has stopped transmitting on the vehicle data bus, so other control units no longer receive its messages. Stability control loses the steering-angle reference and usually disables ESC. Typical causes are loss of power or ground at the module, an open or shorted CAN/LIN bus wire, a connector fault, or an internal module failure.
What U0126 means
U0126 is a generic OBD-II network code in the lost communication group. In plain English: a control module stopped receiving messages from the Steering Angle Sensor Module on the vehicle’s data network.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- Multiple warning lights may illuminate
- Affected modules may go into limp mode or shut down
- Specific functions inoperative depending on module
- Diagnostic tools may show communication faults
Common causes
- 01Steering angle sensor unpoweredMost likely
- 02Clockspring (in steering column) failedPossible
- 03Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectlyLess likely
Can I drive with U0126?
Usually yes, for a short time.
The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
Why we rate it moderate
- Turns on the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose U0126
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just U0126. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Check for related codes first
Look for U0236. Related codes often share a cause; a circuit or sensor code usually needs fixing before a performance code like this one.
- 3
Check module power, ground and the data bus
Confirm the module named in the code has battery voltage, ignition feed and a good ground. With the battery disconnected, a healthy CAN bus usually measures about 60 ohms between CAN-High and CAN-Low at the OBD port. Inspect connectors for corrosion and pushed-out pins.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Steering angle sensor unpowered; clockspring (in steering column) failed; gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
U0126 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Steering angle sensor
- CAN bus wiring
U0126 FAQ
What does U0126 mean?
U0126 means “Lost Communication with Steering Angle Sensor Module”. The Steering Angle Sensor Module has stopped transmitting on the vehicle data bus, so other control units no longer receive its messages. Stability control loses the steering-angle reference and usually disables ESC. Typical causes are loss of power or ground at the module, an open or shorted CAN/LIN bus wire, a connector fault, or an internal module failure.
Is U0126 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate U0126 as moderate severity. Usually yes, for a short time. The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
What causes U0126?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Steering angle sensor unpowered; Clockspring (in steering column) failed; Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix U0126?
Typical labor is about $125–$375 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix U0126 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will U0126 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.