U0160
Lost Communication With Audible Alert Control Module
Communication network (body)
Generic OBD-II
Low
What it means
U0160 means the network has lost communication with the audible alert control module — the unit that produces the car's warning chimes and buzzers. It doesn't affect how the vehicle runs; you'll mainly notice missing reminders like the seatbelt, key-in-ignition, or lights-on chime. It's usually a power, ground, or bus wiring problem at the module.
Low
Can I keep driving? Safe to drive — you'll mainly lose warning chimes and buzzers. It doesn't affect how the car runs, though missing alerts are a minor safety annoyance.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Warning chimes and buzzers not sounding (seatbelt, key, door-ajar, lights-on)
- Related warning light or message about the alert or body system
- Audible alert control module not responding to a scan tool
- Intermittent or missing audible reminders
Common causes
Most likely first
- Loss of power or ground to the audible alert control moduleLikely
- Blown fuse feeding the moduleCommon
- Corroded, damaged, or loose connectors and wiringCommon
- CAN bus wiring fault isolating the module from the networkLess often
- Failed audible alert control moduleLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Scan all modules and confirm the audible alert control module is unreachable.
- Check battery voltage and the module's fuse, power, and ground feeds first.
- Inspect the module's connectors and wiring for corrosion, damage, or water intrusion.
- Test the CAN bus wiring between the module and the network for opens or shorts.
- If power, grounds, and wiring are good, suspect the module — replace and program it as required, then clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with U0160?+
Yes — the car runs normally. You'll just lose warning chimes, so be a little more attentive to reminders like seatbelts and lights until it's fixed.
Can I just clear U0160?+
You can, but it returns unless the module's power, ground, wiring, or the unit itself is repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with U0160
Read & clear U0160 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX