U0159 code meaning
Lost Communication With Parking Assist Control Module A
What U0159 means
U0159 reports that parking assist control module A, which evaluates the ultrasonic sensors and drives the distance warnings, has fallen silent. GM spells out the check for the brake module: the 2019 Cadillac XT4 EBCM (19OBDG03D) and the 2020 brake module tables (20OBDG03C) set it when the automatic-parking braking request is missing for more than 0.25 s, Type C, no MIL. GM bulletins PIT5507E (2014-2018 full-size trucks and SUVs) and 20-NA-099 (CT6) cure start-up U0159 entries with new park assist software. Ford SSM 51486 (2023 Super Duty) and VW TSB 01-24-02 (2024 ID.4) treat it as a harmless ABS entry; Stellantis S2108000149 asks for module updates. Park assist then switches off.
U0159 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.3 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U0159
- Park assist unavailable or Service Parking Assist message
- Park assist switch cannot turn the system on or off
- Code stored in brake module, cluster or BCM
Common causes of U0159
- Most likelyPark assist module software fault, fixed by reprogramming (GM PIT5507E, 20-NA-099)
- PossibleModules on different software levels (Stellantis S2108000149)
- PossiblePark assist module without power or ground
- Less likelyHarmless entry after remote start or wake-up (Ford, VW)
- Less likelyBus line or connector in the bumper/rear area damaged
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Parking assist moduleCAN bus wiring
What each part of U0159 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 59 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0159 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 U0159
What does U0159 mean?
U0159 means "Lost Communication With Parking Assist Control Module A". U0159 reports that parking assist control module A, which evaluates the ultrasonic sensors and drives the distance warnings, has fallen silent. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0159?
U0159 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will U0159 fail an emissions test?
U0159 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 U0159 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 2.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U0159 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.