U0433 code meaning
Invalid Data Received From Front Distance Range Sensor - Single Sensor or Center
What U0433 means
U0433 concerns the forward distance sensor of adaptive cruise control when there is only one or when it sits in the middle, usually a long-range radar behind the grille. A receiver stores it when the radar's object frames fail their protection checks or carry implausible values. GM's 2025 tables describe the EOCM3 assistance controller testing six protected radar burst messages for wrong counter, checksum or authentication code; it reacts after errors in 3 of 4 messages, judged over about 0.03 s of a 0.04 s window and only at 9 to 16 V, and then switches adaptive cruise off as a special Type C fault without MIL. Ford's 2014 code list carries U0433 without lamp marking. For the driver, cruise and collision warning become unavailable. U0235 is lost contact; left and right sensors use U043B and U043C.
U0433 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.4 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U0433
- Adaptive cruise control switched off
- Forward collision warning or emergency braking unavailable
Common causes of U0433
- PossibleRadar misaligned after front-end work or impact, sending implausible objects
- PossibleRadar or assistance controller software out of step
- Less likelyLow supply voltage or poor connector at the radar
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Front distance sensor center
What each part of U0433 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 33 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0433 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 U0433
What does U0433 mean?
U0433 means "Invalid Data Received From Front Distance Range Sensor - Single Sensor or Center". U0433 concerns the forward distance sensor of adaptive cruise control when there is only one or when it sits in the middle, usually a long-range radar behind the grille. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0433?
U0433 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will U0433 fail an emissions test?
U0433 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 U0433 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.4 to 2.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U0433 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.