U0696 code meaning
Lost Communication With Particulate Filter Pressure Sensor C
Network system Generic code U06xx codes Check engine light
What U0696 means
In GM's 2025 diesel tables 25OBDG04A and 25OBDG04B, sensor C is the downstream relative pressure sensor, which reads the gauge pressure behind the particulate filter and carries its own temperature element (lost communication there is U06B6). U0696 is set when the sensor reports message faults above a fixed count or when its newest message is too old, judged as 158 failures in 200 samples at 12.5 ms intervals. Being Type A, it turns on the lamp in the first trip. GM keeps offset errors at standstill (P2CE5) and a frozen signal (P2CE6) apart. Ford's 2024 gasoline summary lists U0696 with P2CE5 for SENT filter pressure sensors, checked continuously with 5 s to register. Without this value, back pressure and filter load are estimated. Sensor D is U0697.
U0696 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 1.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U0696
- Check engine light, on GM diesels in the first trip
- Particulate filter regeneration based on estimates or delayed
Common causes of U0696
- Most likelyWiring to the downstream pressure sensor damaged by heat or chafing
- PossibleInternal sensor fault that switches off the SENT output
- PossibleConnector corroded by road splash
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
DPF pressure sensor cVehicle bus wiring
What each part of U0696 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 96 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0696 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 U0696
What does U0696 mean?
U0696 means "Lost Communication With Particulate Filter Pressure Sensor C". In GM's 2025 diesel tables 25OBDG04A and 25OBDG04B, sensor C is the downstream relative pressure sensor, which reads the gauge pressure behind the particulate filter and carries its own temperature element (lost communication there is U06B6). It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0696?
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 U0696 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. U0696 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 U0696 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 1.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will U0696 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.