U0195 – Lost Communication With Audio Amplifier means the infotainment system, BCM, or instrument cluster has stopped receiving data from the vehicle’s audio amplifier over the CAN bus. Modern amplifiers handle more than just speaker volume—they manage active noise cancellation, door chimes, Bluetooth audio, navigation prompts, microphone routing, and sometimes ANC sensors. When communication is lost, sound may disappear completely, become distorted, or certain features may stop working. This guide explains what U0195 means, its symptoms, causes, diagnostic steps, and the most effective repairs.
What Does U0195 Mean?
U0195 is a generic OBD-II U-code set when the audio amplifier module goes offline and no longer responds to CAN network messages. In many vehicles, the amplifier is integrated with the infotainment unit, while others mount it under the seat, in the trunk, or behind the dash. If the CAN bus cannot deliver control signals, the amplifier cannot process audio or provide system feedback.
Common causes include poor grounding, power loss, water-damaged connectors, damaged wiring, or internal module failure. While drivability is unaffected, losing amplifier communication can disable multiple convenience and safety features that rely on audio output.
Quick Reference
- OBD-II Family: U-Code (Communications)
- Scope: Generic
- System: Audio / Infotainment / CAN Bus
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Estimated Repair Cost: €60–€450+
- Last Updated: 22 November 2025
Real-World Example / Field Notes
A luxury sedan arrived with no door chimes, no radio audio, and a “Sound System Unavailable” message. Multiple modules stored U0195. The amplifier, located in the trunk, was sitting in moisture from a clogged drain. Corrosion on the main connector caused the module to drop off the CAN bus. Cleaning the connector and fixing the drain restored full sound output.
Another case involved an SUV where audio cut out randomly during driving. U0195 showed up intermittently. The issue was a poor ground strap on the amplifier under the passenger seat. Tightening the ground resolved the communication failures immediately.
Symptoms of U0195 – Lost Communication With Audio Amplifier
- No audio output: Radio, Bluetooth, navigation prompts, or door chimes silent.
- Intermittent sound: Audio cuts out or fades unexpectedly.
- Distorted sound: Amplifier unable to process CAN data correctly.
- Touchscreen volume controls not responding: Display cannot communicate with amplifier.
- No ANC (if equipped): Active noise cancellation may stop functioning.
- No communication with amplifier via scan tool: Module offline.
Common Causes of U0195
Most Common Causes
- Loss of power or ground at the amplifier
- Corroded or water-damaged amplifier connectors
- CAN wiring open/shorted between amplifier and infotainment/BCM
- Internal failure of amplifier module
- Low system voltage or alternator instability
Less Common Causes
- Rodent damage under seats or trunk liners
- Aftermarket subwoofers or audio wiring disrupting CAN circuits
- Failed CAN terminating resistor (rare)
- Overheated amplifier causing internal shutdown
- Damaged seat wiring harness (for under-seat amplifier systems)
Diagnosis: Step-By-Step Guide
Diagnosing U0195 involves verifying amplifier power, checking CAN network stability, and inspecting connectors for damage or corrosion.
Tools You’ll Need
Advanced scan tool, multimeter, wiring diagrams, trim tools, backprobe pins, CAN breakout box, and optional oscilloscope.
- Scan all modules: Confirm U0195 and note other communication or low-voltage codes.
- Locate the amplifier: Typically under a seat, in the trunk, or behind interior trim panels.
- Check power and ground: Verify battery voltage at the amplifier and ensure grounds are clean and tight.
- Inspect amplifier connectors: Look for corrosion, water damage, or loose pins.
- Test CAN-H and CAN-L voltage: Expect ~3.5V (H) and ~1.5V (L).
- Check continuity on CAN lines: Ensure no open circuits between the amplifier and head unit/BCM.
- Look for water intrusion: Common in trunk-mounted systems.
- Disconnect aftermarket audio equipment: Poorly installed sound systems can disrupt CAN communication.
- Hard reset of infotainment: Remove fuse or disconnect battery briefly to reboot the system.
- Oscilloscope CAN testing: Look for noise, reflections, or waveform distortions.
Pro Tip: If the amplifier is under the seat, years of passenger movement often stress the harness. Slight insulation damage can cause intermittent U0195 faults long before the wire fully breaks.
Possible Fixes & Repair Costs
- Repair or tighten amplifier ground: €20–€80
- Clean or replace amplifier connectors: €20–€100
- Repair damaged CAN wiring: €60–€200
- Fix water leaks (trunk or roof): €50–€250
- Replace audio amplifier module: €180–€450+
- Charging system repair: €120–€400
Can I Still Drive With U0195?
Yes. U0195 does not interfere with engine or transmission operation. However, you may lose all audio output—including warning chimes, seatbelt reminders, or navigation guidance. If safety-related audio alerts are missing, driving may be less safe, especially in unfamiliar conditions.
Related Codes
- U0151 – Instrument Panel Communication Fault
- U0141 – Steering System Network Communication Fault
- U0121 – Lost Communication With Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Control Module
- U0102 – Lost Communication With Transfer Case Control Module
- U0101 – Lost Communication With TCM
- U0100 – Lost Communication With ECM/PCM "A"
- U0194 – Lost Communication With Audio Display
- U0188 – Lost Communication With Video Display
- U0185 – Lost Communication With TV/Telematics Unit
- U0184 – Lost Communication With Radio
Key Takeaways
- U0195 indicates the audio amplifier is offline and not communicating on the CAN bus.
- Common causes: power loss, bad grounds, corrosion, or wiring faults.
- All audio functions—including alerts and chimes—may stop working.
- Most repairs are inexpensive unless the amplifier module has failed.
FAQ
Does U0195 mean the amplifier is blown?
Not always. Many failures trace back to poor grounds or connector corrosion rather than a bad amplifier.
Can water intrusion cause U0195?
Yes. Trunk-mounted amplifiers are especially vulnerable to moisture damage.
Does U0195 affect drivability?
No, but safety alerts and warning sounds may be muted.
Can aftermarket subwoofer installs trigger U0195?
Yes. Incorrect wiring often interferes with CAN communication or power feeds.
Is it safe to drive with U0195?
Usually yes, but missing chimes or alert sounds may reduce situational awareness.