What Does U0073 Code Mean on Chevy Silverado and How to Fix

Is your Chevy Silverado struggling to start or move off the ground? A code U0073 may be the source of this issue.

U0073code displays when two of your Silverado’s control modules cannot communicate with one another.

You might be unsure exactly how to fix it after receiving the code. There is no cause for concern. In this article, I’ll explain the code U0073 in full, including how to quickly solve the issue.

What Does U0073 Code Mean on Chevy Silverado?

Your Chevy Silverado’s U0073 code denotes an issue with communication bus “A.” Signals from the control module are sent between various automotive components via this bus.

The “A” part of the code denotes the exact bus that the modules are utilizing to communicate, which, depending on the manufacturer, may be either CAN High or CAN Low.

As a result of the code’s generic nature, it is hard to determine which of these possibilities applies unless you begin to investigate it. This might suggest that the communication is either ineffective, or inconsistent, or that it has halted.

Moreover, many systems in the vehicle won’t be able to interact with one another if the CAN bus does not function properly. It may result in issues ranging from the dashboard not showing any information to the engine failing to start.

How Serious Is Code U0073 On Chevy Silverado?

Your Chevy Silverado’s U0073code indicates a critical problem. It’s a serious OBD-II issue code, and finding the cause typically involves a thorough diagnosis.

A communication breakdown can be fatal since the CAN bus transmits all the data required to keep the engine operating normally.

It is worth noting that simple failure of a power window to roll up or down might be the issue. It may even be as dangerous as your ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) not modulating your brakes correctly during an emergency stop.

Numerous symptoms can be caused by the U0073 code, so if you notice any of them, you should have them corrected right away. It will be necessary to record or replace one or more modules.

If not fixed, your car’s fuel efficiency may suffer and you might have difficulties starting and operating it.

What Causes Code U0073 On Chevy Silverado?

Your vehicle may suddenly display the U0073 code, leaving you to wonder what caused it. One of the two lines that collect data from the car’s modules is the “A” circuit. If your vehicle displays a U0073 engine code, one of the following issues might be to blame:

• Connector that isn’t properly positioned at one or more system modules.
• Pin(s) in one or more CAN-bus cable connections that have been backed out.
• Insulation on a CAN-bus cable ripped, creating a short to ground
• Broken CAN-bus cable.
• The entrance of moisture into one or more of the CAN-bus cable connections or modules.
• System control modules with electrical issues on one or more.
• A proper CAN-bus continuity is being hampered by other electrical issues.

Other Symptoms of Getting U0073 Code on Chevy Silverado

Your Chevy Silverado will display a few signs of the problem if the code U0073 appears. The symptoms are frequently so subtle that you frequently wouldn’t notice them all at once. However, in rare instances, you may see the following symptoms of this code:

• There may be flickering warning lights on the instrument panel.
• The transmission might malfunction or might automatically go into second gear and stick there.
• Intermittent door lock cycles are possible.
• The engine might occasionally not turn or never start.
• The gauges on the instrument panel might act strangely.
• The use of the brakes may result in inconsistent instrument panel readings and/or sounds.
• Several irregular system issues that are way too numerous to detail.
• Fuel mileage becomes poor.

How To Fix U0073 Code on Chevy Silverado

Let’s look at how we can repair the code U0073 on your Chevy Silverado. Fixing problems associated with this code might be particularly challenging because the electrical flaws may not be visible or easily detected.

You must first determine the actual cause of the problem. Therefore, test the components that caused the wastegate to fail in the first place.

1. Look for TSBs Associated with the Control Module

Check for any Technical Service Bulletins relating to the control modules as a good location to start diagnosing U0073.

You may access the NHTSA’s VIN lookup tool by taking a look at https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls. You’ll be able to check for TSBs for your Chevy Silverado from there. It is worth mentioning that if your VIN is not available, you have to search by year, model, and manufacturer by selecting the “vehicle” option.

2. Look for Additional Codes

U0073 is frequently seen in connection with other control module-related codes. Fixing these will usually clear U0073. Thus, make sure you review those codes before attempting this way to solve the problem.

3. Examine the BUS Connections and Wiring

You have to maintain the first two stages which are due diligence. You get to complete these 2 steps to ensure that another issue is not affecting U0073. The most common cause of U0073 is a problem with the wiring. I am noting down how you can figure out what’s creating a wiring problem.

4. Locate the Bus Connections.

5. Examine the Wiring loom.

Look for chafing, scorched wires, or melted wiring/plastic. Then, you should keep a close eye on any areas where the harness must travel around a bend or comes into contact with something that might harm it.

You will understand that you need an open/short there. If you find the wire broken, you will need to repair the harness. If you see there is no obvious damage to the wiring, proceed to examine the harness connections at the control units.

6. Examine the Harness/loom Connections.

After determining what’s wrong with the wire harness/loom, the next place to investigate is where it connects to your Silverado’s central controller (s). Do not forget to unplug the control module’s harness to see if there is anything wrong with the connections. Once you have disconnected the harness, go for examining the pins to determine whether they are damaged. If any of them seem discolored in contrast to the remainder of the harness, you get to understand that this can be the source of U0073.

Therefore, apply electrical contact cleaner to thoroughly clean the harness pins. You should then check to determine whether the module can interact with a scanner or not. If you see that it cannot communicate, there is nothing but one of the modules has most likely failed.

Common Mistakes in Code U0073 Diagnosis

When diagnosing code U0073, there are a few frequent mistakes that individuals make. Let’s look at a few of them.

• Not examining the basics. Check if the battery is fully charged, the fuel tank is full, and the oil level is proper.
• Not inspecting the wiring. Check that all of the connectors are correctly plugged in and that the wiring is not damaged.
• Not inspecting the car’s computer for connection damage.
• Make sure the diagnostic scan tool is correctly plugged in and the software is up to date. Many people forget to do so. 

How Much Does It Cost to Fix the U0073 Code on Chevy Silverado?

The cost of repairing the code U0073 on a Chevy Silverado is determined by the cost of diagnosing and locating the problem, as well as the cost of replacing the parts.

Moreover, the cost of repairing this issue depends on the brand and model of the vehicle. For Chevy Silverado, it may range between $800 and $1,000. In certain circumstances, two or more modules must be changed.

It is worth mentioning that the value of diagnosing the U0073 error code is one hour of work. The average vehicle repair business charges $75 to $150 per hour.

Is it Safe to Drive with a U0073 Code on Chevy Silverado?

According to many users, it is theoretically possible to drive with a U0073 code in many scenarios. However, users should better not drive in such a case to avoid unwanted situations.

U0073 mostly gets triggered when the vehicle loses connectivity sporadically, which implies that Chevy Silverado will still function in general, however particular features may not keep performing like usual time. If it completely loses contact, your life will be at risk. You should consult with a professional if the symptoms become so noticeable.

How Simple Is It to Examine a U0073 Code?

The U0073 code is quite common; it just shows that the control modules are not communicating properly on your car. The cause of this lack of communication might be anything, and identifying and resolving the issue can be difficult.

If you have this code in your Chevy Silverado, it’s usually advisable to avoid attempting a DIY remedy and instead leave the matter to the professionals.

What Is the Difficulty of Inspecting a U0073 Code?

Chevy Silverado requires different diagnostics and maintenance procedures which makes the inspection procedure complex. Thus, it is better to see a professional.

Conclusion

Now you know what the code U0073 means. Thus, there’s no need to be concerned if your car displays this code. To get rid of it, simply follow the steps outlined in this article.

If you continue to struggle with any of these solutions, get an expert to perform the difficult replacements for you.