U0116

What it means

The Steering Effort Control Module has stopped transmitting on the vehicle data bus, so other control units no longer receive its messages. Speed-dependent steering assist is lost, changing the steering feel. Typical causes are loss of power or ground at the module, an open or shorted CAN/LIN bus wire, a connector fault, or an internal module failure.

Is it safe to drive?

The vehicle is usually drivable for short distances, but the problem can worsen or affect emissions. Diagnose and repair as soon as practical.

Most likely causes

• Steering effort module unpowered

  high

  One of the most commonly reported causes for this code — check this first.

• CAN wiring to steering effort module broken

  medium

  A plausible cause — test and verify before replacing parts.

• Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly

  low

  Less common, but worth ruling out after the more likely causes.

Related help

• Full U0116 diagnosis, causes & costs
• How to read check engine light codes
• Is it safe to drive with the light on?