U046B code meaning
Invalid Data Received From Global Positioning System Module
What U046B means
U046B indicates that position, speed or time data from the global positioning system module fail plausibility in a receiving unit: a corrupt frame, a counter that stalls, or coordinates that cannot match the movement the car measures through its wheel speeds. The receiver feeds navigation, telematics, emergency call and map-based assistance. At Ford the telematics control unit evidently plays this role: according to SSM 54351, Transit vans of model year 2026 that lack a TCU can store the lost-contact twin U016A in a secondary OBD module, with no repair needed. A similar note for U046B does not exist; no manufacturer documents U046B publicly. U0464 covers bad data from the navigation unit, U0198 lost contact with the telematics module. The map position drifts or freezes; driving is unaffected, no MIL.
U046B at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- 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 U046B
- Vehicle position on the map is wrong, jumps or freezes
- Connected services or emergency call show no location
- Clock or time zone set incorrectly
Common causes of U046B
- Most likelyDamaged GPS antenna, cable or connector giving poor or jumping fixes
- PossibleSoftware fault in the GPS or telematics module
- PossibleLow battery voltage or poor ground at the module
- Less likelyInternal fault in the GPS module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Gps module
What each part of U046B means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 6B | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U046B 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 U046B
What does U046B mean?
U046B means "Invalid Data Received From Global Positioning System Module". U046B indicates that position, speed or time data from the global positioning system module fail plausibility in a receiving unit: a corrupt frame, a counter that stalls, or coordinates that cannot match the movement the car measures through its wheel speeds. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U046B?
U046B does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will U046B fail an emissions test?
U046B 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 U046B to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U046B clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.