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U0126: Lost communication with the steering angle sensor module

The vehicle network is not receiving messages from the sensor that measures steering wheel angle. Stability control and other aids usually switch off.

Code U0126 at a glance
CodeU0126
SystemCommunication network
GroupU01xx, Lost communication with control units
TypeGeneric: it means the same on every make
Can you keep driving?With care

What U0126 means

The steering angle sensor, on the steering column, tells the control units which way and how far you are turning. Stability control, electric power steering and aids such as lane keeping rely on it. This code means the sensor has stopped sending messages over the network.

Most common causes

  • Low or unstable battery voltage
  • Blown fuse for the sensor
  • Loose or badly seated connector behind the steering wheel (common after replacing the wheel, airbag or clock spring)
  • Damaged wiring in the steering column
  • Faulty steering angle sensor

Symptoms

  • Stability control warning light on
  • Steering or driver assistance fault message
  • Lane keeping or park assist unavailable
  • Power steering may feel heavier on some cars

Can you drive with U0126?

With care You can drive, but without stability control, so take it easy, especially in the wet. If the steering becomes heavy, get to a garage as soon as possible.

How to check it

If work has recently been done on the steering wheel, airbag or column, tell the garage: a badly fitted connector is the most likely cause. After the repair, this sensor usually needs calibrating with diagnostic equipment.

How to read and clear U0126 with Final OBD

Plug an OBD2 scanner in under the steering wheel, switch the ignition on and open Final OBD. Under Faults you’ll see U0126 with this same explanation and whether it’s confirmed, pending or permanent.

With Free you read this code with its short description for nothing, and clear it if the engine stores it over standard OBD. With Pro you get the full explanation, how the car was running when it was logged (revs, temperature, load) and clearing in every control unit.

Clearing the code only turns the light off: if the cause is still there, it comes back. Clear it once it’s fixed, and not right before the ITV. It’s all in how to read and clear fault codes and in the ITV and OBD.

Similar codes

U0126 is a generic code, so it means the same on any make, for example on Citroën, Ford, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Volvo. See what Final OBD does on your car in makes and models.

What does code U0126 mean?

The steering angle sensor, on the steering column, tells the control units which way and how far you are turning. Stability control, electric power steering and aids such as lane keeping rely on it. This code means the sensor has stopped sending messages over the network.

Can you drive with U0126?

You can drive, but without stability control, so take it easy, especially in the wet. If the steering becomes heavy, get to a garage as soon as possible.

How do you clear U0126?

With an OBD2 scanner and an app like Final OBD, which clears it for free if it’s stored by the engine control unit. But clearing it only turns the light off: if the cause isn’t fixed, U0126 comes back.