HomeTrouble CodesU0689

U0689 — Lost Communication Turbochargersupercharger B Temperature Sensor

Generic OBD-II · all makesNetwork / communication

U0689 indicates the powertrain control module (PCM) has stopped receiving data from the turbocharger or supercharger B temperature sensor, which is typically a digitally-communicating device on a serial bus. This is a network communication fault rather than a performance-range fault, meaning the sensor or its wiring has failed to transmit a signal, not necessarily that the temperature reading is implausible.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Wiring harness open or short

The communication lines (often LIN or CAN) or power/ground circuits to the sensor are the most common failure points due to heat cycling, chafing near the turbocharger, or corrosion in connectors.

2. Failed temperature sensor module

The sensor itself may have an internal communication circuit failure, preventing it from responding to the PCM’s requests while the actual thermistor portion may still function.

3. Connector pin damage or spread terminals

High under-hood temperatures and vibration can cause terminal fretting, back-out, or oxidation in the sensor’s multi-pin connector, interrupting the serial data line.

4. Power or ground interruption

A blown fuse, corroded ground eyelet, or voltage drop on the sensor’s reference power supply will silence the module and set this code.

5. Aftermarket electrical interference

Non-OEM lighting, audio, or telematics devices tapped into shared communication buses can corrupt or block messages to the PCM.

6. PCM internal fault

Although rare, a failed transceiver circuit inside the PCM can cause it to stop communicating with this specific sensor while other modules function normally; this should only be considered after wiring and sensor are verified good.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Perform a visual inspection of the sensor connector and harness within 12 inches of the turbocharger/supercharger for heat damage, chafing, or corrosion.
  2. Check sensor power, ground, and bias voltage at the connector with a digital multimeter; verify the fuse serving the sensor circuit is intact.
  3. Measure continuity and resistance of the serial communication line between the sensor and PCM, checking for opens, shorts-to-ground, or shorts-to-power.
  4. If wiring is intact, monitor live data with a scan tool to see if the sensor responds to a module reset; if silent, substitute a known-good sensor or test the original on a bench simulator.
  5. Check for related U-codes in other modules that share the same bus to isolate whether the issue is circuit-specific or network-wide.
  6. As a final step, verify PCM software is current and test PCM communication port integrity only after eliminating all external causes.

Code facts & related codes

SystemNetwork / communication
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Does this code mean my turbocharger is physically damaged?

No. U0689 specifically flags a data-link failure, not a mechanical turbo fault. The turbo itself may be mechanically fine; the engine computer simply cannot read its temperature sensor.

My mechanic says I need a new PCM. Is that correct?

Usually not. The vast majority of U0689 faults are resolved by repairing wiring or replacing the sensor module. PCM failure is statistically unlikely and should only be diagnosed after the sensor, connectors, and harness are proven fault-free.

What does the 'B' in the code description mean?

'B' typically indicates the secondary sensor in a dual-turbo setup, the sensor on bank 2, or a specific redundant sensor depending on the manufacturer’s topology; consult the wiring diagram to identify its physical location.

Is it safe to drive with this code active?

Short trips are generally safe, but the engine will likely operate in a conservative 'limp' mode to protect against over-boost or over-temperature conditions. Prolonged high-load driving should be avoided until repairs are made.