Engine-CodesFord – U0138 Ford

U0138 Ford Code - Lost Communication With All Terrain Control Module

Quick Answer

The U0138 Ford code indicates that there is a communication issue between the vehicle's onboard computer system and the All Terrain Control Module. Common causes include Faulty wiring or connectors leading to the All Terrain Control Module, A malfunctioning All Terrain Control Module, Issues with the powertrain control module (PCM). Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
U0138 Ford indicates Lost Communication With All Terrain Control Module.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty wiring or connectors leading to the All Terrain Control Module, A malfunctioning All Terrain Control Module, Issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 12, 2024
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Code U0138 Ford Description

The U0138 Ford code indicates that there is a communication issue between the vehicle's onboard computer system and the All Terrain Control Module. The All Terrain Control Module is responsible for managing various functions related to the vehicle's traction control, stability control, and other systems that are crucial for safe driving in various road conditions. When communication is lost with this module, it can lead to a range of performance issues and potentially affect the vehicle's overall safety.

OBDII Code U0138 Ford - Lost Communication With All Terrain Control Module
U0138 Ford Code - Lost Communication With All Terrain Control Module

Common Causes of U0138 Ford

  1. Faulty wiring or connectors leading to the All Terrain Control Module
  2. A malfunctioning All Terrain Control Module
  3. Issues with the powertrain control module (PCM)
  4. Network communication problems within the vehicle's system

Symptoms of U0138 Ford

  1. Illumination of the traction control and stability control warning lights on the dashboard
  2. Decreased traction and stability while driving, especially in slippery conditions
  3. Loss of functionality in the traction control system
  4. Erratic or inconsistent behavior from the vehicle's stability control system

How to Fix U0138 Ford

  1. Conduct a thorough inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the All Terrain Control Module to check for any damage or loose connections
  2. Use diagnostic tools to assess the functionality of the All Terrain Control Module and determine if it needs to be replaced
  3. Check the powertrain control module (PCM) for any faults or errors that could be impacting communication with the All Terrain Control Module
  4. Test the vehicle's network communication system to identify and address any issues that may be causing the communication failure
  5. Clear the diagnostic trouble codes, reset the system, and perform a test drive to ensure the issue has been resolved

Cost to Fix U0138 Ford

The typical repair costs for addressing a U0138 Ford code can vary depending on the specific cause of the communication issue and the required repairs. In general, the cost of parts for replacing a faulty All Terrain Control Module can range from $200 to $500, while labor costs can range from $100 to $200. Additional costs for diagnostic testing, wiring repairs, or other related services may apply.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about U0138 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code U0138 in a Ford vehicle?

- Common symptoms include the illumination of the Check Engine Light, issues with the traction control system, and difficulty shifting gears.

2. What does the OBDII code U0138 Ford indicate?

- This code indicates a communication problem between the vehicle's main computer and the All Terrain Control Module.

3. What are the possible causes of the U0138 code in a Ford vehicle?

- Possible causes include a faulty All Terrain Control Module, damaged wiring or connectors, a drained battery, or a software glitch.

4. How can I diagnose the U0138 code in my Ford vehicle?

- Diagnosing the U0138 code typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes and testing the communication between the main computer and the All Terrain Control Module.

5. Can I still drive my Ford with the U0138 code present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the U0138 code present, as it can impact the functionality of the traction control system and other safety features.

6. How can I repair the U0138 code in my Ford vehicle?

- Repairing the U0138 code may involve replacing the All Terrain Control Module, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring the battery is fully charged, and performing a software update.

7. Is it possible to reset the U0138 code in a Ford vehicle?

- The U0138 code can be reset using a diagnostic scanner after the underlying issue has been diagnosed and resolved.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the U0138 code in a Ford vehicle?

- While some aspects of diagnosing and repairing the U0138 code may be possible for a DIY enthusiast, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and repair.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the U0138 code in a Ford vehicle?

- The cost of repairing the U0138 code can vary depending on the underlying issue, but it may range from $200 to $800, including parts and labor.

10. Is the U0138 code a common issue in Ford vehicles?

- The U0138 code related to lost communication with the All Terrain Control Module is not extremely common but can occur in Ford vehicles, especially in models equipped with advanced traction control systems.

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