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U0035 — Vehicle Communication Bus High

Generic OBD-II · all makesNetwork / communication

Code U0035 indicates that the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN) bus is detecting a voltage level higher than the normal operating range. This typically signifies a short circuit to a power source or a failure in the network's terminating resistors.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Wiring Short Circuit

A short between the CAN High line and a 12V power source due to chafed or damaged wiring.

2. Failed Terminating Resistor

An open circuit or failure in one of the network's termination resistors, causing signal voltage instability.

3. Corroded Connectors

Moisture or corrosion in a module connector causing a bridge between power pins and communication pins.

4. Faulty Network Module

An internal hardware failure within a peripheral module (e.g., ABS or BCM) that is pulling the bus voltage high.

5. PCM/ECM Internal Failure

A failure in the engine control module's communication transceiver.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Perform a visual inspection of the wiring harness for signs of melting, fraying, or rodent damage.
  2. Measure resistance between CAN High and CAN Low pins at the OBD-II port with the battery disconnected; a reading of approximately 60 ohms is typical.
  3. Check for voltage on the CAN High line relative to ground to determine if it is stuck at battery voltage.
  4. Disconnect network modules one by one to identify if a specific module is causing the high voltage state.
  5. Use an oscilloscope to analyze the CAN bus waveform for signal clipping or noise.

Code facts & related codes

SystemNetwork / communication
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Should I replace the PCM if I see this code?

No. U0035 is most frequently caused by wiring shorts or faulty peripheral modules. Replacing the PCM without verifying a wiring fault is usually an incorrect and expensive mistake.

Can a dead battery cause this code?

While low voltage can cause communication errors, U0035 specifically refers to the voltage being too high, which usually indicates a short to power rather than a discharged battery.

Is it safe to drive with this code?

It is not recommended, as a communication bus failure can disable critical safety systems such as the airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control.