U0126 Lost communication with steering angle sensor module
What U0126 means
The steering angle sensor tells the stability control and power steering systems where the steering wheel is pointing. U0126 means other modules stopped receiving its messages. Stability control and some driver assistance systems are normally switched off until the fault is fixed.
U0126 is a generic SAE J2012 code: it means the same on every make. The exact cause still depends on the car, so read the freeze-frame data before replacing parts.
At a glance
- Severity
- Medium
- Typical repair cost
- 100–900 €
- Workshop time
- 1–3 h
- Repair difficulty
- Medium
- DIY possible
- No
- Check engine light
- Yes
- Affects emissions test
- No
Parts and labour at an independent workshop in Europe. Main dealers charge more; the cause decides the bill, not the code.
Symptoms
- ESP/ESC or traction control warning light
- Power steering warning on some cars
- Lane assist or parking assist unavailable
- Steering feel changed on cars with electric steering
Common causes
- Damaged wiring or connector at the steering column
- Failed steering angle sensor
- Blown fuse supplying the sensor
- Fault in the CAN bus wiring
- Sensor disturbed after steering, alignment or column work
Can I keep driving with U0126?
Normal braking and steering work, but stability control may be off. Drive with extra care in poor conditions and have it checked within one or two weeks.
What to check first
- Check the fuse for the steering angle sensor and battery voltage
- Inspect the sensor connector at the steering column for damage or corrosion
- Try to communicate with the sensor using a scan tool and check its power and ground
- Replace the sensor if it does not respond, then calibrate it with a diagnostic tool
Related codes
- U0127 Lost communication with tyre pressure monitor module
- U0121 Lost communication with ABS control module
- U0120 Lost communication with starter/generator control module
- U0140 Lost communication with body control module
- U0109 Lost communication with fuel pump control module
- U0184 Lost communication with radio
- U0046 Vehicle communication bus C fault
- U0252 Lost communication with rear lighting control module B
Data: TORKO fault-code catalogue, built on OBDex (CC0-1.0) and reviewed against workshop practice. Informational only — it does not replace a diagnosis by a mechanic.
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