U0587 code meaning
Invalid Data Received From Radiator Anti-Tamper Device
Network system Generic code U05xx codes Check engine light
What U0587 means
Some low-emission vehicles have a radiator coated with a catalyst that converts ground-level ozone, known as direct ozone reduction (DOR) or by BASF's trade name PremAir; it earns an emissions credit, and CARB then requires the OBD system to monitor it. A Ford patent filed by Swedish inventors describes the matching sensor: it is pressed into the radiator fins, reports radiator temperature, since the coating works above roughly 60 °C, and sends an encrypted message so the engine controller knows the original part is fitted; a frangible pin stops it being moved to another radiator. U0587 means that message arrives but fails verification or plausibility. No manufacturer documents U0587 publicly. U0286 is the lost-communication code.
U0587 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor1 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of U0587
- Check engine light on
- No noticeable change in driving or cooling
Common causes of U0587
- Most likelyRadiator replaced with an uncoated part or sensor moved from another radiator
- PossibleAnti-tamper sensor internally faulty
- Less likelyCorroded connector or wiring at the radiator
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Radiator anti tamper device
What each part of U0587 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 87 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0587 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 U0587
What does U0587 mean?
U0587 means "Invalid Data Received From Radiator Anti-Tamper Device". Some low-emission vehicles have a radiator coated with a catalyst that converts ground-level ozone, known as direct ozone reduction (DOR) or by BASF's trade name PremAir; it earns an emissions credit, and CARB then requires the OBD system to monitor it. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0587?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will U0587 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. U0587 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is U0587 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 1 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U0587 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.