U0196
Lost Communication With Entertainment Control Module - Rear A
Communication network
Generic OBD-II
Low
What it means
U0196 means the vehicle's network has stopped receiving expected messages from the rear-seat entertainment control module. That module runs the rear-seat entertainment system (rear screens and their media). The rear-seat entertainment system won't work, but driving and the front systems are unaffected.
Low
Can I keep driving? Yes — this only affects the rear entertainment system. The vehicle drives normally.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Warning light or message related to the affected system
- The rear-seat entertainment control module's features stop working or work intermittently
- Stored 'lost communication' code in the module that reports the fault
- Rear-seat screens blank or unresponsive
- Rear entertainment media not playing
Common causes
Most likely first
- Power or ground fault feeding the rear-seat entertainment control moduleLikely
- Damaged wiring or a loose/corroded connector at the rear-seat entertainment control moduleCommon
- Break in the CAN/bus wiring between the module and the rest of the networkCommon
- The rear-seat entertainment control module itself has failed internallyLess often
- Low battery voltage or a recent battery disconnect knocking modules off the busLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Check battery voltage and charge; a weak battery or recent disconnect is a common, easy cause.
- Scan all modules and confirm whether only the rear-seat entertainment control module is missing or several are — that narrows wiring vs. module.
- Verify power and ground at the rear-seat entertainment control module's connector.
- Inspect the connector and harness to the rear-seat entertainment control module for damage, corrosion, or backed-out pins.
- Check for a manufacturer software update or reflash; if wiring and power are good, replace the failed module. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with U0196?+
Yes — this only affects the rear entertainment system. The vehicle drives normally.
Can I just clear U0196?+
You can clear it, but if the module is still offline the code returns as soon as the network looks for it. Fix the power, wiring, or module first.
Related codes
Often seen with U0196
Read & clear U0196 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