HomeTrouble CodesU0063

U0063 — Vehicle Communication Bus D Shorted Bus D

Generic OBD-II · all makesNetwork / communication

OBD-II code U0063 indicates a short circuit condition on Vehicle Communication Bus D, a specific high-speed data network used for module-to-module communication. This electrical fault disrupts data flow, often causing multiple control modules to lose contact with each other or enter a fail-safe mode. The issue is typically rooted in wiring harness damage or connector corrosion rather than internal module failure.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Damaged wiring harness or chafed wires

Physical wear where the bus wires rub against the chassis or engine components is the most common cause, creating a direct short to ground or power.

2. Corroded or moisture-filled connectors

Water intrusion into network junctions or module connectors can bridge pins, causing a short circuit on the bus lines.

3. Aftermarket accessory installation errors

Recently installed electronics (alarms, stereos, trackers) tapped into the wrong wires or poorly spliced connections can short the communication bus.

4. Failed control module internal short

An internal fault within a specific node on Bus D can pull the entire network down, though this is less frequent than external wiring issues.

5. Rodent damage to wiring loom

Animals nesting in the engine bay or dashboard may chew through insulation, exposing conductors and causing shorts.

6. Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

While possible, an internal short within the PCM itself is statistically rare and should only be considered after all wiring and other modules are ruled out.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Visually inspect the entire accessible length of Bus D wiring for chafing, cuts, or signs of rodent damage.
  2. Check all relevant connectors for water intrusion, corrosion, or bent pins, paying close attention to ground points.
  3. Disconnect modules on Bus D one by one while monitoring resistance to isolate the specific circuit or component causing the short.
  4. Review recent vehicle history for aftermarket installations and temporarily disconnect them to test for code resolution.
  5. Measure voltage and resistance on Bus D lines with all modules disconnected to confirm if the short is in the harness or a module.
  6. Only consider replacing a control module if the wiring harness is proven intact and the short persists when that specific module is connected.

Code facts & related codes

SystemNetwork / communication
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Does code U0063 mean I need to replace the engine computer (PCM)?

No, in the vast majority of cases, this code is caused by damaged wiring or a connector issue, not a failed PCM. Replacing the computer without verifying the harness first is rarely the correct fix.

Can I drive the vehicle with this code?

It is generally unsafe to drive, as the short can disable critical systems like braking assistance, steering control, or engine management, potentially leading to a sudden loss of vehicle control.

Why do so many different error codes appear at once?

Because Bus D connects multiple modules, a single short circuit prevents them from communicating, causing each module to log a 'loss of communication' fault with every other module on the network.

Will clearing the code fix the problem?

No, clearing the code will only temporarily turn off the warning light; the short circuit is a physical hardware fault that will cause the code to return immediately once the system cycles.