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U0698 code meaning

Lost Communication With Coolant Pump E

Network system Generic code U06xx codes Check engine light

What U0698 means

Coolant pump E continues the generic letter series of auxiliary electric pumps after A to D. Mercedes-Benz uses it for the second coolant pump in its low-temperature circuit: bulletin LI20.00-P-076708 lists U0698E4 and U0698E5 in the powertrain control unit N127 together with other LIN devices such as fan, charge-air cooler pump and high-temperature control valve. Affected are the GLC (254) and the 2024 facelift GLE (167); drivers see the check engine lamp, a coolant warning and the radiator fan at maximum speed. On the GLC with control unit software 22A the fix is a software update; otherwise connectors, wiring and intermediate connections on the LIN bus are checked. Pumps like Bosch's PDE take speed commands via PWM or LIN and diagnose themselves.

U0698 at a glance

  • Check engine lightYes, usually on
  • Emissions testCan fail
  • Limp modePossible
  • Repair difficultyMedium
  • Typical labor0.3 to 3 hours
  • Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner

Symptoms of U0698

  • Check engine light
  • Coolant warning message
  • Radiator fan running at full speed

Common causes of U0698

  • Most likelyPowertrain control unit software (Mercedes N127 version 22A)
  • PossibleLIN wiring or intermediate connector chafed or corroded
  • Less likelyPump E electronics failed

Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.

Parts involved

Coolant pump eVehicle bus wiring

What each part of U0698 means

UNetwork system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus).
0Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard).
98The exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note U0698 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 U0698

What does U0698 mean?

U0698 means "Lost Communication With Coolant Pump E". Coolant pump E continues the generic letter series of auxiliary electric pumps after A to D. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with U0698?

Drive gently and only to a workshop. With U0698 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.

Will U0698 fail an emissions test?

Yes, it can. U0698 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 U0698 to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.

Will U0698 clear itself after the repair?

Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.

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Technical content: OBDex open OBD-II database (public domain, CC0), checked 5 Nov 2026, edited for US drivers by the VinGear team.
Technical sources for U0698