U045C code meaning
Invalid Data Received From Power Steering Control Module B
What U045C means
Power steering module B is the second controller of a redundant electric steering system. Bosch presented a fail-operational EPS for highly automated driving in 2017: if one path fails, the system can still steer the car to a safe stop or spare the driver a sudden rise in steering effort. U045C is set when the partner, typically steering module A or the automation computer, gets messages from B but finds them invalid, for instance a frozen counter or a mismatching CRC under AUTOSAR end-to-end protection; complete silence from B is U015B, and invalid data from module A is U0420. No manufacturer documents U045C publicly. Assisted steering usually continues on path A, but a steering warning and blocked automated steering are likely until the cause is found.
U045C at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U045C
- Steering system warning
- Lane centring or automated steering unavailable
- Steering assist reduced in some cases
Common causes of U045C
- Most likelySoftware or calibration of steering module B not matching module A
- PossibleVoltage dips or poor ground at the second steering path
- Less likelyInternal fault of steering module B
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Power steering module b
What each part of U045C means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 5C | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U045C 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 U045C
What does U045C mean?
U045C means "Invalid Data Received From Power Steering Control Module B". Power steering module B is the second controller of a redundant electric steering system. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U045C?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With U045C the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will U045C fail an emissions test?
U045C 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 U045C to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U045C clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.