U0153 code meaning
Lost Communication With Side Restraints Control Module Right
What U0153 means
U0153 means the airbag system no longer hears from the separate control module for the right-side restraints. Some vehicles split the job: a central airbag unit plus side units that evaluate side impact sensors and fire side or curtain bags. When the right unit's periodic messages stop, the receiving modules store U0153, in the same way GM's U0100-U02FF logic treats any silent node. No manufacturer documents U0153 publicly; GM's list stops at U0151 for its single sensing and diagnostic module. U0152 is the left-hand twin, U0151 the main restraints module. The airbag warning lamp comes on and side protection on the right may be unavailable; no MIL. Work on airbag components belongs in a workshop.
U0153 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U0153
- Airbag warning lamp on
- Right side or curtain airbag may not deploy
- Scan tool cannot reach the right side module
Common causes of U0153
- Most likelyLoose or corroded connector at the right side module (B-pillar or under the seat)
- PossiblePower or ground of the right side module missing
- PossibleBus wiring damaged after seat or trim work
- Less likelyRight side restraints module faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Side restraints module rightCAN bus wiring
What each part of U0153 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 53 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0153 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 U0153
What does U0153 mean?
U0153 means "Lost Communication With Side Restraints Control Module Right". U0153 means the airbag system no longer hears from the separate control module for the right-side restraints. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0153?
U0153 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will U0153 fail an emissions test?
U0153 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is U0153 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U0153 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.