U0197 code meaning
Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module
Network system Generic code U01xx codes Check engine light
What U0197 means
U0197 says the telephone control module, in most cars the Bluetooth hands-free unit, has gone quiet on the bus. FCA uses it widely under the name Hands Free Phone Module. Bulletin 08-112-14 covers 2013-2015 Town & Country, Grand Caravan, Compass, Patriot and Wrangler plus 2013-2014 Challenger, Avenger and 200 with Bluetooth not working; new HFM software loaded over USB cures it. Bulletin 08-083-19 (Journey 2012-2019, Charger and 300 2012-2014) adds that the MIL may come on with U0197-00 when the module fails to trunk or no longer shows up in the wiTECH network view; a reflash is the fix. GM's Saab lists call it the telephone control module. Hands-free calls and voice control drop out. U0198 is the telematics unit, U0498 invalid data.
U0197 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U0197
- Phone does not pair or calls are not possible hands-free
- Display reports the hands-free module is still loading
- MIL on in some FCA models
Common causes of U0197
- Most likelyHands-free module software hangs at trunk (FCA update)
- PossibleModule without power or ground
- PossibleBus line or connector to the phone module faulty
- Less likelyTelephone control module faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Hands free moduleCAN bus wiring
What each part of U0197 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 97 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0197 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 U0197
What does U0197 mean?
U0197 means "Lost Communication With Telephone Control Module". U0197 says the telephone control module, in most cars the Bluetooth hands-free unit, has gone quiet on the bus. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0197?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will U0197 fail an emissions test?
U0197 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 U0197 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U0197 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.