The Seasoned Wrench

,

Harley Code U0011: Causes and Solutions

Chase Manhattan Avatar

Last Updated:

Note: My posts may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe in. Thanks for supporting The Seasoned Wrench!

Read my full affiliate disclaimer >>

If you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, you may encounter trouble codes on your dashboard from time to time. One of the codes that you may come across is U0011, which indicates a communication bus performance issue. This code can be frustrating and confusing, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be resolved in no time.

When you see the U0011 code on your Harley, it means that there is an issue with the communication bus between the different electronic control modules on your motorcycle. This can cause a range of problems, from issues with your odometer to problems with your security system. It’s important to address this issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage or malfunctions.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to fix the U0011 code on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. These steps include visually inspecting the wiring harness and connectors, checking for damaged components, and ensuring that all pins on the connectors are intact and not corroded. With a little bit of effort and some basic tools, you can get your motorcycle back on the road and running smoothly again.

Understanding Harley Code U0011

If you own a Harley, you may have seen the trouble code U0011 appear on your dashboard. This code indicates a problem with the Controller Area Network (CAN Bus) communication. In this section, we will explore the basics of CAN Bus and the role of the control module in your Harley.

Basics of Controller Area Network (CAN Bus)

CAN Bus is a communication protocol used in modern vehicles to allow different electronic control modules to communicate with each other. It is a two-wire communication system that allows for high-speed data transfer between modules. The CAN Bus system allows for faster and more efficient communication between different modules, resulting in better overall vehicle performance.

Role of the Control Module

The control module is the main component of the CAN Bus system. It is responsible for controlling and monitoring the different modules in your Harley. The control module uses the CAN Bus system to communicate with the different modules and receive data from them. It then uses this data to control the various systems in your Harley, such as the engine, transmission, and brakes.

When the control module detects a problem with the CAN Bus communication, it will set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), such as U0011. This code indicates that there is a problem with the communication between the different modules in your Harley.

To fix this problem, you should first visually inspect the medium speed CAN Bus devices, wiring harness, and connectors for any damage or corrosion. Look for any damaged components and check for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector’s pins. If you are unsure about how to fix the problem, it is best to take your Harley to a professional mechanic to get it fixed.

In conclusion, understanding Harley Code U0011 is important for maintaining the performance of your Harley. By knowing the basics of CAN Bus and the role of the control module, you can better understand how your Harley works and how to fix any problems that may arise.

Common Symptoms and Actuators Affected

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley Davidson motorcycle and are seeing the U0011 diagnostic code, it is important to understand the symptoms and actuator malfunctions that are commonly associated with this code. Here is what you need to know:

Actuator Malfunctions

The U0011 code is often caused by issues with the throttle control actuator (TCA). A poor connection at the TCA can affect the sensor voltages reported to the ECM and this can set the code. The sensor voltage only needs to be altered by 0.13 VDC to possibly set the code. If you are experiencing issues with your throttle control, such as difficulty accelerating or the bike stalling, it is possible that the TCA is malfunctioning.

ABS and ECM Issues

The U0011 code can also be caused by issues with the ABS or ECM. Faulty or damaged medium speed CAN bus devices or modules, faulty or damaged wiring harness or connectors, shorted or open circuits, poor electrical connections, and interference from other sources can all cause the U0011 code to appear. Some of the symptoms that may indicate U0011 are the check engine light turning on, difficulty starting the bike, and reduced power output.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to have your motorcycle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue. Ignoring these issues can lead to further damage to your bike and potentially dangerous riding conditions.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Related to U0011

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle and have received the U0011 DTC, you may also encounter other related DTCs. Understanding these codes can help you diagnose and resolve the underlying issues.

Trouble Codes for Battery and Ignition

The U0011 DTC indicates a communication bus performance issue, which can be caused by a problem with the battery or ignition system. If you are also receiving the U0100 DTC, it means that your Harley-Davidson has lost communication with the ECM. This can be caused by a faulty battery or ignition switch.

To diagnose this issue, you can check the battery and ignition system for any signs of damage or wear. You can also use a diagnostic tool to check the battery voltage and ignition system performance. If you find any issues, you should replace the faulty parts immediately to avoid further damage to your motorcycle.

ABS and Speedometer Error Codes

In addition to battery and ignition issues, the U0011 DTC can also be related to ABS and speedometer error codes. If you are receiving the C0562 DTC, it means that the ABS voltage is low, which can cause an ABS fault. If you are receiving the B2274 DTC, it means that the odometer self-diagnostic is inoperative, which can be related to the U0001 and U0011 DTCs.

To diagnose these issues, you can check the ABS voltage and speedometer performance using a diagnostic tool. You can also visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors for any signs of damage or wear. If you find any issues, you should replace the faulty parts immediately to avoid further damage to your motorcycle.

In conclusion, understanding the DTCs related to U0011 can help you diagnose and resolve the underlying issues with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. By checking the battery, ignition, ABS, and speedometer systems, you can identify and replace any faulty parts to ensure the optimal performance of your motorcycle.

Electrical Components and Circuitry

When it comes to Harley Davidson motorcycles, the U0011 code is related to the electrical system. This means that there may be issues with the wiring harness, connectors, or other electrical components. In this section, we will discuss some of the common electrical components and circuitry that may be affected by the U0011 code.

Security Antenna Outputs

One of the common causes of the U0011 code is a security antenna output that is open. This can occur due to a damaged or broken wire, or a corroded connector pin. To fix this issue, you will need to visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any damage or corrosion. Look for any broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins. If you find any damage, you will need to repair or replace the affected components.

Brake Lamp Circuit Issues

Another common cause of the U0011 code is a brake lamp circuit issue. This can occur due to an open circuit or a short circuit in the brake lamp wiring. To fix this issue, you will need to visually inspect the brake lamp circuit for any damage or corrosion. Look for any broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins. If you find any damage, you will need to repair or replace the affected components.

Ground

Ground is an essential component of the electrical system in your Harley Davidson motorcycle. Without a proper ground, the electrical components may not function correctly, and you may experience issues such as the U0011 code. To fix this issue, you will need to ensure that the ground connections are clean and tight. Look for any signs of corrosion or damage, and clean or replace the affected components as necessary.

By understanding the common electrical components and circuitry that may be affected by the U0011 code, you can diagnose and fix the issue more effectively. Remember to always visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any damage or corrosion, and repair or replace the affected components as necessary.

Step-by-Step Fix for Code U0011

If you’re experiencing code U0011 on your Harley, don’t panic. This issue is fixable and can be done with a little bit of troubleshooting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you resolve this error code.

Troubleshooting the CAN Bus

The first step in fixing code U0011 is to troubleshoot the controller area network (CAN) bus. This is the communication system that allows the different modules of your Harley to talk to each other. If there’s a problem with the CAN bus, it can cause a range of issues, including code U0011.

To troubleshoot the CAN bus, you’ll need to visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any damage or corrosion. Look for any broken, bent, or pushed out pins, as well as any signs of corrosion. If you find any issues, replace the damaged components.

Resolving Control Module Errors

If there are no issues with the CAN bus, the next step is to check for control module errors. These are errors that occur when one of the modules on your Harley isn’t communicating properly with the others. To check for control module errors, you’ll need to scan your Harley with a code reader and record the freeze frame data.

Once you have the freeze frame data, clear the codes and test drive your Harley to see if they reappear. If the codes do reappear, you’ll need to visually inspect the medium speed CAN bus devices, wiring harness, and connectors for any damage or corrosion. If you find any issues, replace the damaged components.

In conclusion, troubleshooting and fixing code U0011 on your Harley is a manageable task. By following the steps outlined above, you can resolve this error code and get back to enjoying your ride.

Advanced Diagnostics and Error Codes

If you’re experiencing issues with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it’s important to know how to interpret advanced diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) to pinpoint the problem. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most common DTCs and how to interpret them.

Interpreting Advanced DTCs

One of the most useful tools for diagnosing problems with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle is the onboard diagnostic system. This system can help you identify issues with various components of your motorcycle by providing DTCs that correspond to specific problems.

For example, the U0011 DTC indicates a communication bus performance issue. This could be caused by a number of different factors, including a damaged wiring harness or corroded connector pins. To fix this issue, you’ll need to visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors and look for any damaged components.

ABS and Sensor-Specific Codes

In addition to general DTCs, there are also ABS and sensor-specific codes that can help you identify issues with your motorcycle’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) or sensors.

For example, the ABS ECU internal error (C1055) indicates an ABS ECU relay error, while the U0011 code indicates a CAN bus low shorted to CAN bus high. Additionally, the B2274 code indicates an odometer self-diagnostic inoperative, while the B1200 code indicates an IM internal fault.

If you’re experiencing issues with your ABS system or sensors, it’s important to consult your owner’s manual or a qualified technician to ensure that you’re interpreting the codes correctly and taking the appropriate steps to fix the problem.

Overall, by understanding how to interpret advanced DTCs and ABS and sensor-specific codes, you can more effectively diagnose and fix issues with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Issues

If you’ve experienced Harley code U0011, you know how frustrating it can be. To prevent future issues with your motorcycle, you should take some maintenance steps. Here are some tips to help you keep your Harley Davidson running smoothly:

Battery and Ground Connection Care

One of the most common causes of Harley code U0011 is a faulty battery or ground connection. To avoid this issue, you should regularly check your battery and ground connections. Make sure the battery is fully charged and that the connections are clean and tight. If you notice any corrosion or damage, replace the battery or connections as soon as possible.

Regular System Scans and Updates

Regular system scans and updates are also important to prevent future issues with your Harley Davidson. Make sure you scan your motorcycle’s system regularly to check for any faults or errors. You can use a diagnostic tool to do this or take your motorcycle to a professional mechanic.

Updating your motorcycle’s software is also important. Harley Davidson releases updates regularly to fix bugs and improve performance. Make sure you check for updates regularly and install them as soon as possible.

By following these maintenance tips, you can prevent future issues with your Harley Davidson. Taking care of your motorcycle’s battery, ground connections, and software updates can help you avoid Harley code U0011 and other issues.