U010A code meaning
Lost Communication With Exhaust Gas Recirculation Control Module A
Network system Generic code U01xx codes Check engine light
What U010A means
U010A is set when a stand-alone control module for exhaust gas recirculation A stops communicating. J2012 reserves this slot for engines whose EGR valve or EGR system is run by its own electronics on the bus rather than as a plain output of the engine controller; module B (U010B) would be a second such unit. No manufacturer documents U010A publicly, and the NHTSA bulletin index holds no entry for it. Because EGR lowers combustion temperature and NOx, CARB requires it to be monitored, so a lost EGR controller counts as emission-relevant. The nearest documented case is GM's boost control module (U010C), a smart actuator on a sensor bus. Expect EGR shut off and possibly reduced power. U040B covers invalid data.
U010A at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U010A
- MIL on
- EGR deactivated, higher NOx
- Possible reduced power mode
Common causes of U010A
- Most likelyEGR module A without power or ground
- PossibleHeat-damaged wiring or connector near the exhaust side
- PossibleOpen or shorted bus lines to module A
- Less likelyEGR module A internally faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
EGR module aCAN bus wiring
What each part of U010A means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 0A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U010A and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about U010A
What does U010A mean?
U010A means "Lost Communication With Exhaust Gas Recirculation Control Module A". U010A is set when a stand-alone control module for exhaust gas recirculation A stops communicating. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U010A?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With U010A the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will U010A fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. U010A is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is U010A to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U010A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.