U0073 on Chevrolet
Control Module Communication Bus Off
U0073 on Chevrolet vehicles indicates control module communication bus off. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Chevrolet model — most commonly on Malibu. U0073 means the vehicle's communication bus has shut down, or 'gone off,' meaning a control module detected so many errors on the network that it stopped transmitting to protect the bus. On a CAN network, repeated faulty signals cause a module to take itself offline, which can cascade into multiple warning lights and disabled features. This is a network/wiring code rather than a single failed sensor, and it usually points to a wiring short, a defective module flooding the bus, or a power/ground issue affecting communication. It often requires checking the whole bus circuit, not just one part. Typical repair costs on Chevrolet range from $400 to $1,600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of U0073
- •Short to power or ground on the CAN bus wiring
- •CAN high/low wires shorted together
- •A failing module continuously corrupting bus traffic
- •Corroded, loose, or damaged bus connectors
- •Loss of power or ground to a network module
- •Faulty gateway/central communication module
- •Improper or missing bus terminating resistor
U0073 on Chevrolet by Model
Chevrolet Malibu(2 issues)
- Electric Power Steering Motor Failure2013-2024
The 2013+ Malibu uses an electric power steering (EPS) system with a column-mounted motor that is prone to failure. The motor develops internal faults causing intermittent or complete loss of power steering assist, making the car extremely difficult to steer at low speeds. GM issued TSB 18-NA-205 and NHTSA investigated numerous complaints. The steering column module and torque sensor can also fail, triggering a "Service Power Steering" message on the DIC.
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) Assist Motor Failure2008-2012
The 2008-2012 Malibu electric power steering system can suddenly lose assist, reverting to heavy manual steering. The EPS motor, controller, or steering column torque sensor fails. GM issued a special coverage program (10 years/150,000 miles) for this issue. When EPS fails, a warning message and chime sound, and the steering becomes very heavy at low speeds.
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View U0073 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does U0073 mean on Chevrolet?▼
U0073 stands for "Control Module Communication Bus Off." U0073 means the vehicle's communication bus has shut down, or 'gone off,' meaning a control module detected so many errors on the network that it stopped transmitting to protect the bus. On a CAN network, repeated faulty signals cause a module to take itself offline, which can cascade into multiple warning lights and disabled features. This is a network/wiring code rather than a single failed sensor, and it usually points to a wiring short, a defective module flooding the bus, or a power/ground issue affecting communication. It often requires checking the whole bus circuit, not just one part. On Chevrolet specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes U0073 on Chevrolet vehicles?▼
Common causes on Chevrolet: Short to power or ground on the CAN bus wiring, CAN high/low wires shorted together, A failing module continuously corrupting bus traffic, Corroded, loose, or damaged bus connectors, Loss of power or ground to a network module. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix U0073 on a Chevrolet?▼
Repair costs on Chevrolet range from $400 to $1,600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Chevrolet models have U0073 documented?▼
Au7o has documented U0073 on 1 Chevrolet model: Malibu.