OBD-II code U0246 indicates that a control module on the vehicle network has lost communication with the Seat Control Module E. This typically means the module responsible for monitoring seat functions (such as position, heating, or memory) is not responding to data requests, often due to a power, ground, or internal fault in the seat module itself.
The module itself has failed internally due to water intrusion, electrical overload, or component degradation, preventing it from communicating on the network.
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors in the seat harness can interrupt power, ground, or CAN bus lines to the module, causing intermittent or permanent loss of communication.
A blown fuse supplying power to the seat control module E will render it completely inoperative and unable to communicate.
A short to ground, short to power, or open circuit in the CAN bus wiring can prevent the seat module from sending or receiving messages, often affecting multiple modules on the same bus.
A malfunctioning module elsewhere on the same communication network can disrupt bus traffic, causing the seat module to appear offline even if it is functional.
In very rare cases, the PCM may have an internal communication fault that prevents it from correctly interpreting messages from the seat module, but this is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all other possibilities are exhausted.
The letter designates a specific seat control module in vehicles with multiple seat modules, such as for different seating positions (e.g., driver, passenger, rear) or separate modules for different functions. The exact meaning varies by manufacturer, so consult the vehicle service manual for identification.
Yes, the vehicle will typically remain drivable, but seat adjustment and comfort features controlled by that module may be inoperative. There is no immediate safety risk unless the seat is stuck in an unsafe position.
Ignoring the code is not recommended because a non-communicating module can sometimes drain the battery or mask other network issues. Additionally, loss of seat functions may affect comfort and resale value.
Almost never. U0246 is a communication fault with a specific seat module, and the root cause is almost always a problem with that module, its wiring, or its power supply. Replacing the PCM is an expensive misdiagnosis and should only be considered after all other possibilities have been thoroughly ruled out by a qualified technician.