U049F code meaning
Invalid Data Received From Transmission Range Control Module
What U049F means
The transmission range control module (TRCM) is the shift-by-wire actuator that physically moves the transmission between P, R, N and D after the driver selects a range electronically. U049F is stored by a module that receives TRCM messages whose content it rejects. Ford lists U049F in its 2014 OBD code chart without the MIL marker it gives to other codes such as U04A4. GM fitted a TRCM to the 2017 LaCrosse and XT5: under program 17075 a broken actuator gear left cars stuck in Park, and bulletin 16-NA-373 cured a calibration fault that lit the MIL with a transmission warning by reprogramming. U019E stands for lost contact, U031A for software mismatch, U04BD for the park lock module. Drivers may see a shift warning, a wrong gear display or a car that will not leave Park.
U049F at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U049F
- Shift system or transmission service message
- Vehicle stays in Park or does not engage the selected range
- Gear indicator disagrees with the selected range
Common causes of U049F
- Most likelyTRCM electronics or actuator position sensing faulty
- PossibleOutdated TRCM calibration (GM 16-NA-373 calls for reprogramming)
- PossibleBus wiring or connector fault at the transmission-mounted module
- Less likelyLow or unstable battery voltage while shifting
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission range module
What each part of U049F means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 9F | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U049F 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 U049F
What does U049F mean?
U049F means "Invalid Data Received From Transmission Range Control Module". The transmission range control module (TRCM) is the shift-by-wire actuator that physically moves the transmission between P, R, N and D after the driver selects a range electronically. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U049F?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With U049F the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will U049F fail an emissions test?
U049F 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 U049F to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U049F clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.