Generic fault code
U0404 — Invalid data received from gear shift control module A
The control unit stores code U0404 when it detects this fault: “Invalid data received from gear shift control module A”.
Indicative severity: HighCommunication network
Reviewed by Daniel Morales, founder of Reprorace SL, on
What does code U0404 mean?
Control units talk to each other over buses such as CAN. A U code means one control unit has stopped hearing another: the cause may be that other unit, the wiring or the power supply, often a low battery.
- System
- U · Network and communication
- Area
- Communication network · Car system: CAN network and modules
- Type
- Generic (SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6): the same meaning on every make
- Indicative severity
- High. Diagnose as soon as possible: it may affect safety or cause damage (engine, catalyst, brakes).
What usually causes code U0404?
- Internal fault in the control module or its driver stage
- Communication network fault (bus wiring, termination resistor, gateway)
The most likely causes come first. Only a check on the car confirms which one is yours.
What are the symptoms of code U0404?
- Warning lights of the control units involved
- Functions switching off, such as stability control or cruise control
- Often, other codes in the control unit that sends the data
These are the usual symptoms of this kind of fault: not all of them always appear, and sometimes you notice nothing.
Can I keep driving with code U0404?
Better not, except when you really have to. This fault may affect safety or damage the engine, the catalytic converter or the brakes. See a workshop as soon as possible; if you must move the car, drive gently and only short distances. If the light flashes, the car loses power, makes unusual noises or the brakes or steering feel different, stop somewhere safe and call for assistance.
This is guidance only: only someone who checks the car can say whether it is safe to drive.
An indicative description of the code's generic meaning. Each manufacturer may give it a different meaning, conditions or tests: always follow its service information and your workshop's advice.
What you can do yourself
For this kind of fault
The code says which control unit sends invalid data: read its faults, because the cause is usually there. After replacing or reprogramming a control unit, it may need configuring with the manufacturer's information.
Read the code and keep the report: with an ECO-LITE in the OBD socket you see it on your phone or computer, with the data captured when the fault happened.
Look for anything obvious: a loose connector, a disconnected hose, a fuel cap not closed properly or a low fluid level. Do not take apart anything you do not know.
Clear the code only after writing it down or after the repair. Clearing turns the light off, but it also deletes the freeze-frame data and the readiness monitors used at the inspection.
Drive normally for a few days and read the codes again. If the code comes back, the fault is still there: book the workshop and bring the report.
Read your car's fault codes on your phone
With an ECO-LITE in the OBD socket you see the codes in your account, with the data captured when the fault happened, and your workshop can check them remotely, always with your permission.
Related codes
- U0401Invalid data received from ECM/PCM A
- U0402Invalid data received from TCM
- U0403Invalid data received from transfer case control module
- U0405Invalid data received from cruise control module
- U0406Invalid data received from fuel injector control module
- U0407Invalid data received from glow plug control module 1
U04xx codes: invalid data received from another control unit
In the glossary
Read more: Remote OBD diagnostics: what it is, how it works and what it can't do