Loss of power or ground to the power steering control module (35% likelihood): The PSCM requires stable 12V power. A blown fuse, corroded ground connection, or damaged power wire prevents the module from operating and communicating on the CAN bus. Corroded wiring or connector at the PSCM (25% likelihood): The power steering module connector is often located in the engine bay or near the steering rack where it is exposed to heat, moisture, and road spray. Corroded pins or frayed wires interrupt communication. CAN bus wiring fault between PCM and PSCM (20% likelihood): A short or open circuit on the CAN bus segment dedicated to the steering module prevents the PCM from receiving status data from the PSCM, triggering U0131. Failed power steering control module (15% likelihood): Internal electronic failure of the PSCM due to heat exposure, vibration, or moisture ingress can permanently disable its ability to communicate on the vehicle network. Weak vehicle battery (5% likelihood): Low voltage conditions can cause the PSCM to drop off the network intermittently. This is especially common after a battery replacement or jump-start.

How much does it cost to fix U0131?

DIY repair typically costs $10–$50 for parts. Professional repair runs $200–$1000 including parts and labor.

U0131

Network

Moderate

Lost Communication With Power Steering Control Module

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Code U0131 indicates that the powertrain control module has lost communication with the power steering control module (PSCM) over the CAN bus network. In modern vehicles with electric power steering (EPS), the PSCM is responsible for providing the electrical assist that makes steering feel light and easy. When this communication is lost, the steering system may revert to manual mode, making the wheel significantly harder to turn — especially at low speeds and during parking.

The vehicle is still physically drivable because the mechanical steering linkage remains intact, but the effort required to turn the wheel increases by 30–50%. This can be especially challenging for drivers who are not accustomed to unassisted steering, and it can be a safety concern in situations that require quick maneuvering. The most common causes are electrical: blown fuses, corroded connectors, or damaged wiring to the PSCM.

Have this diagnosed within the week. A mechanic will check the power supply and ground circuits to the steering module, inspect the CAN bus wiring, and test the module's response to network requests. In many cases, cleaning corroded connections or replacing a blown fuse resolves the issue. If the module itself has failed, replacement and reprogramming with a dealer-level tool is typically required.

Severity

Moderate — Address SoonThis Week

Symptoms

•Steering feels noticeably heavier than normal, especially at low speeds
•Power steering warning light on dashboard
•Check engine light may be illuminated
•Steering effort increases by 30-50% compared to normal operation
•Electric power steering may cut in and out intermittently
•Difficulty parking or making tight turns

Likely Causes

Loss of power or ground to the power steering control module35%

The PSCM requires stable 12V power. A blown fuse, corroded ground connection, or damaged power wire prevents the module from operating and communicating on the CAN bus.

Corroded wiring or connector at the PSCM25%

The power steering module connector is often located in the engine bay or near the steering rack where it is exposed to heat, moisture, and road spray. Corroded pins or frayed wires interrupt communication.

CAN bus wiring fault between PCM and PSCM20%

A short or open circuit on the CAN bus segment dedicated to the steering module prevents the PCM from receiving status data from the PSCM, triggering U0131.

Failed power steering control module15%

Internal electronic failure of the PSCM due to heat exposure, vibration, or moisture ingress can permanently disable its ability to communicate on the vehicle network.

Weak vehicle battery5%

Low voltage conditions can cause the PSCM to drop off the network intermittently. This is especially common after a battery replacement or jump-start.