HomeTrouble CodesU0013

U0013 — Medium Speed Can Communication Bus Low

Generic OBD-II · all makesNetwork / communication

The U0013 code indicates a problem with the medium‑speed CAN communication bus signal level being too low, meaning the network is not transmitting correctly at the expected voltage.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Loose or corroded CAN bus connector

Poor contact at the bus connectors can reduce voltage, causing a low‑speed signal condition.

2. Damaged or shorted CAN bus wiring

Chafed, cut, or shorted wires to ground can lower the bus voltage below the required threshold.

3. Faulty control module on the CAN network

A malfunctioning module (e.g., body control module, instrument cluster, or powertrain control module) may not transmit properly, dragging the bus low.

4. Improper CAN bus termination resistor

Missing or incorrect termination can cause reflections that affect signal integrity, leading to low‑speed errors.

5. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failure

A defective PCM can cause low‑speed bus issues, but this is uncommon; usually the problem lies elsewhere.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Verify the U0013 code with a scan tool and check for related network codes.
  2. Inspect all CAN bus connectors for corrosion, damage, or loose pins.
  3. Measure bus voltage on the medium‑speed CAN lines while the vehicle is on; compare to specification (typically ~2.5 V).
  4. Perform a continuity and resistance test on the CAN wiring for shorts to ground or power.
  5. Test individual modules on the network for proper communication using a scan tool.
  6. If wiring and connectors are sound, examine termination resistors and replace if missing or incorrect.

Code facts & related codes

SystemNetwork / communication
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Will replacing the PCM fix U0013?

Usually not; the code is most often caused by wiring, connector, or module issues, and PCM replacement should be a last resort after other causes are ruled out.

Can a bad battery cause U0013?

A severely low battery voltage can affect CAN bus operation, but the code specifically points to low signal levels on the medium‑speed bus, which is more commonly due to wiring or module problems.

Is the U0013 code related to emissions?

No, U0013 is a network communication fault and does not directly affect emissions; however, it may cause the vehicle to enter limp‑mode, which can influence engine performance and fuel trim.

How long does it take to repair U0013?

Repair time varies with the cause; fixing a loose connector may take minutes, while wiring repairs or module replacement can require several hours.