U0601
Lost Communication With Tire Pressure Monitor ModuleU0601 is a generic OBD-II network diagnostic trouble code: Lost Communication With Tire Pressure Monitor Module. It is logged by the engine control unit when the network monitor detects that a specific fault threshold has been exceeded — typically resulting in the malfunction-indicator lamp (MIL / check-engine light) being illuminated.
What U0601 means
DTC U0601 is set by the ECM or BCM when communication with the Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) module is lost on the vehicle's communication network (typically CAN bus). The TPM module is expected to broadcast pressure data at regular intervals; when the controlling module fails to receive these messages within the defined timeout window, U0601 is stored and the TPMS warning lamp may illuminate.
The fault can be intermittent or permanent. Intermittent failures are commonly caused by loose connectors, chafed wiring, or poor grounds on the network segment shared by the TPM module. A permanent loss of communication usually points to a failed TPM module, an open or shorted CAN bus wire, or a blown fuse supplying the module.
Because U0601 is a network communication code rather than a sensor fault, the underlying tire pressures themselves may be unknown to the vehicle. Technicians should verify network integrity before replacing the TPM module, as bus faults caused by other modules can mask themselves as individual module communication loss.
Common causes
Most-frequently reported root causes when U0601 is logged.
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1
Failed or unpowered Tire Pressure Monitor module.
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2
Open, short, or high-resistance fault on the CAN bus wires to the TPM module.
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3
Blown fuse or faulty relay supplying power to the TPM module.
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4
Poor ground connection at the TPM module or nearby ground point.
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5
Loose, corroded, or damaged connector at the TPM module.
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6
CAN bus termination resistor fault affecting the network segment.
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7
Software or internal processor fault within the TPM module.
Symptoms drivers notice
How to diagnose U0601
A typical diagnostic flow when this code is present.
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1
Retrieve all stored DTCs from all modules to identify whether multiple communication codes are present, which could indicate a broader bus fault.
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2
Check power and ground circuits at the TPM module using a wiring diagram and a multimeter.
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3
Inspect the CAN bus connector and wiring harness to the TPM module for damage, corrosion, or loose terminals.
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4
Measure CAN bus differential voltage at the TPM module connector with the network active and verify it is within specification.
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5
Check the CAN bus termination resistance (typically 60 ohms measured across CAN-H and CAN-L with modules disconnected) to rule out terminator faults.
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6
Attempt to communicate with the TPM module using a scan tool; if no communication is possible, confirm power and ground are present before condemning the module.
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7
Replace the TPM module only after ruling out wiring and network faults.
Related network codes
- U0603 — Lost Communication With Navigation Control Module
- U0609 — Lost Communication With Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor "A"
- U060B — Lost Communication With Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Sensor "A"
- U060F — Lost Communication With Body Control Module J
- U0619 — Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor Module
- U061F — Lost Communication With Body Control Module 'B'
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with U0601 stored?
The vehicle is generally drivable, but you will have no tire pressure monitoring. Check tire pressures manually and address the fault promptly to restore TPMS function.
Does U0601 always mean the TPM module is bad?
No. Wiring faults, blown fuses, and CAN bus issues are equally common causes. Always verify power, ground, and bus integrity before replacing the module.
Will U0601 cause a failed emissions inspection?
U0601 is a network code and does not directly relate to emissions, but an illuminated MIL from this code can cause an emissions test failure in jurisdictions that check the MIL.
Can a dead battery cause U0601?
Yes. A weak or recently discharged battery can cause temporary loss of module communication. Clear the code and verify it does not return under normal operating conditions after the battery is in good condition.
Disabling U0601 in software
RaceTune can permanently disable U0601 — and any other OBD-II diagnostic trouble code — on every ECU family we support. The monitor is disabled inside the ECU itself, so the fault stops being logged: the warning light stays off and the engine never enters limp mode for this code. The change is tied to your exact software version.
Software modifications affect emissions compliance and are not road-legal in many jurisdictions. RaceTune service files are intended for motorsport, off-road, and export use.
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