U0197: Lost Communication with Hands-Free Phone Control Module
The infotainment system cannot reach the hands-free phone controller. Bluetooth telephony, address book sync and emergency call features may be unavailable.
What U0197 means
U0197 is a generic OBD-II network code in the lost communication group. In plain English: a control module stopped receiving messages from the Hands-Free Phone Control Module on the vehicle’s data network.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- 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
- 01Hands-free module unpoweredMost likely
- 02Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectlyLess likely
- 03CAN terminating resistor (120 Ω) drifted out of specLess likely
Can I drive with U0197?
Generally yes.
This fault is unlikely to affect how the car drives. Fix it when convenient.
Why we rate it low
- Does not normally turn 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 U0197
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just U0197. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 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: Hands-free module unpowered; gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly; CAN terminating resistor (120 Ω) drifted out of spec. 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.
U0197 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
- Hands free module
- Infotainment bus
U0197 FAQ
What does U0197 mean?
U0197 means “Lost Communication with Hands-Free Phone Control Module”. The infotainment system cannot reach the hands-free phone controller. Bluetooth telephony, address book sync and emergency call features may be unavailable.
Is U0197 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate U0197 as low severity. Generally yes. This fault is unlikely to affect how the car drives. Fix it when convenient.
What causes U0197?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Hands-free module unpowered; Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly; CAN terminating resistor (120 Ω) drifted out of spec. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix U0197?
Typical labor is about $40–$250 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 U0197 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 U0197 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.