Ford-specific code — factory diagnostic data| DTC Data Sheet | |
| Code | U0073 |
| Vehicle | 2011 Ford F-150 |
| Module | COMMUNICATION NETWORK |
| Fault type | Circuit |
| Official meaning | Vehicle Communication Bus A "off" |
Definition source: Ford factory description. Diagnostic guidance is based on factory-defined fault logic for this code.
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Looking for the cross-vehicle definition? Read the generic U0073 article for the SAE-defined fault logic that applies to all manufacturers.
U0073 Quick Answer
U0073 on a 2011 F-150: Vehicle Communication Bus A "off". Ford’s factory diagnostic guidance for this code: ABS module The module could not communicate on the network at a point in time. The fault is currently not present since the module is currently communicating with the scan tool reporting this DTC. CLEAR the DTC. REPEAT the network test with the scan tool. VERIFY the integrity of…
What Does U0073 Mean on a 2011 F-150?
The 2011 Ford F-150 uses the COMMUNICATION NETWORK to monitor and diagnose this circuit. U0073 is set when the module detects vehicle communication bus a "off". The official meaning per the 2011 F-150 service information is exactly: Vehicle Communication Bus A "Off".
Symptoms
- Check engine light or system warning indicator on the instrument cluster
- Reduced functionality of the affected communication network system
- Possible co-codes from connected modules on the 2011 F-150 CAN bus (HS-CAN/MS-CAN)
Common Causes
- Fault in the named component, sensor, or actuator circuit
- Open or shorted wiring in the affected circuit
- Connector corrosion or backed-out terminal
- Loss of supply voltage or ground at the affected device
- Module internal fault (rare — verify wiring and supplies first)
Ford-Recommended Diagnostic Action
Per the 2011 Ford F-150 service information for U0073:
ABS module The module could not communicate on the network at a point in time. The fault is currently not present since the module is currently communicating with the scan tool reporting this DTC. CLEAR the DTC. REPEAT the network test with the scan tool. VERIFY the integrity of the connectors and wiring. Refer to SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS – F150 for schematic and connector information.
Pinpoint test references above are Ford F-150 service-manual chart numbers. Refer to the corresponding chart in the Ford 2011 F-150 Workshop Manual for step-by-step diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostic Approach
For U0073 on the 2011 Ford F-150 you’ll need a scan tool that supports CAN bus health checks (HS-CAN, MS-CAN), plus a digital multimeter.
- Verify the code is current rather than just stored history. Use the scan tool’s self-test on the COMMUNICATION NETWORK.
- Read freeze-frame data and any related codes. Modules sharing CAN bus segments often log overlapping faults.
- Inspect the connector at the device named in the code description. Wiggle-test the connector while monitoring live data to expose intermittent faults.
- Measure supply voltage and ground integrity at the affected device with the engine running.
- Follow the Ford-recommended action above — including any pinpoint-test reference — for procedure-level diagnosis.
- If supplies are clean and the connector is sound, isolate the device with a known-good substitute. Re-clear the code and verify it does not return on a road test.
Possible Fixes
- Replace the failed device or sensor identified during diagnosis
- Repair open or shorted wiring
- Connector pin-tension or pigtail repair
- Module replacement and PMI (Programmable Module Installation) if the module itself is faulty
Can I Still Drive With U0073?
Drivability impact depends on the affected subsystem. COMMUNICATION NETWORK faults that affect a primary safety system (brakes, restraints, steering) should be repaired before further driving. Comfort or convenience faults can usually be deferred briefly without immediate safety risk.
FAQ
Will U0073 clear itself on a Ford F-150?
If the underlying fault was a momentary glitch — for example a brief connector dropout or a one-time low-voltage event — the U0073 may clear after a few drive cycles. Persistent root causes (failed device, broken wire, corroded terminal) will keep the fault active until the affected component is repaired on the Ford F-150.
Can I drive my Ford F-150 with U0073 active?
It depends which subsystem is affected. If the U0073 is in a primary safety system (brakes, restraints, steering, air suspension), the Ford F-150 should be driven only to a workshop. Comfort, lighting, and audio faults are lower priority but still worth addressing — the Ford F-150’s CAN architecture means a single unresolved code can mask others.
How much does it cost to fix U0073 on a Ford F-150?
Repair cost depends on the named device. On the Ford F-150, simple connector or wiring repairs typically run $80-200 in shop labour. Sensor replacements run $120-450 including parts and diagnostic time. Module replacement (when the affected control module itself has failed) is the most expensive path at $400-1,200 depending on whether the new module needs programming. Get a written estimate that breaks out diagnosis time, parts, and any required PMI / programming charge.
What does the official Ford F-150 service definition say about U0073?
Per the factory service information, U0073 is defined as: Vehicle Communication Bus A "off". The diagnostic procedure is in the Ford F-150 service-manual chapter for the affected module.