U0230 code meaning
Lost Communication With Rear Gate Module
What U0230 means
U0230 means the rear gate module, which runs a powered liftgate or tailgate with its drive, latch, cinch motor and pinch detection, has dropped off the bus. Toyota bulletin T-SB-0038-15 (Highlander and Highlander HV 2008-2013) names U0230 together with B2222 when the power back door reverses at the end of its travel or clunks at the striker, and gives a hinge and hatch inspection and repair. GM PI PIT5422 (Equinox, Terrain 2010-2015) blames moisture and corroded terminals in connector X901, high on the liftgate, for U0230 and other low speed LAN codes. A Chrysler STAR case (S1908000143) found it as Power Liftgate Module code beside chafed wiring at the right B-pillar. Saab lists the slot as Liftgate Control Module. Power operation of the gate fails; no MIL.
U0230 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U0230
- Power liftgate does not open or close electrically
- Gate reverses or stops during power closing
- Several lost communication codes stored at once
Common causes of U0230
- Most likelyWater or corrosion in the harness connector at the liftgate
- PossibleWires broken in the flexing harness between body and gate
- PossibleBus wiring chafed along the body (seat or pillar area)
- Less likelyRear gate module faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Rear gate moduleCAN bus
What each part of U0230 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 30 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0230 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 U0230
What does U0230 mean?
U0230 means "Lost Communication With Rear Gate Module". U0230 means the rear gate module, which runs a powered liftgate or tailgate with its drive, latch, cinch motor and pinch detection, has dropped off the bus. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0230?
U0230 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will U0230 fail an emissions test?
U0230 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 U0230 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will U0230 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.