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U11C3CriticalNetwork

U11C3 on 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE (GLE 350, GLE 450 4MATIC, GLE 450d, GLE 580, AMG GLE 53) — ESM Lost Communication With TCM On DPT CAN

1 vehicles · 1 makes · $800-$4,500 repair

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Most Reported On

2020-2025Mercedes-Benz GLEGLE 350 +4

U11C3 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “ESM Lost Communication With TCM On DPT CAN.” U11C3 is a Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/RAM (Stellantis) manufacturer-specific network code indicating the Electronic Shift Module (ESM) has lost communication with the Transmission Control Module (TCM) over the DPT (Dedicated Powertrain) CAN bus. It sets when the ESM cannot exchange messages with the TCM for more than roughly 300 ms. Because the shifter and transmission can no longer reliably communicate, it can cause shifting problems, no-start or no-shift conditions, and limp/default behavior. This code is most commonly reported on 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE (GLE 350, GLE 450 4MATIC, GLE 450d, GLE 580, AMG GLE 53), with repair costs ranging from $800 to $4,500.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (1)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (3)
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Common Causes

1Faulty or corroded wiring/connectors between the ESM and TCM on the CAN DPT bus
2Open, short, or high-resistance in the CAN bus circuit (CAN-high/CAN-low) or loss of bus terminating resistance
3Failed or internally faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM)
4Failed or faulty Electronic Shift Module (ESM)
5Poor power or ground supply to the TCM or ESM
6Damaged connector pins (bent, pushed-out, spread, or corroded terminals)

Typical Repair Cost

$800 - $4,500

Based on 1 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose U11C3, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

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ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

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A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

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Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

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Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.

  • Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
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Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

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A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

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Professional$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

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Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.

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Vehicles Affected (1)

Mercedes-Benz U11C3 page →
GLECritical

48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss

2020-2025$800-$4,5000 reports

Related Codes (8)

01336Data Bus for Comfort System65535Internal Control Module Memory ErrorU0001High Speed CAN Communication BusU0102Lost Communication With Transfer Case Control ModuleU0151Lost Communication With Restraints Control ModuleU0164Lost Communication With HVAC Control ModuleU0184Lost Communication With RadioU0235Lost Communication With Cruise Control Front Distance Range Sensor

FAQ

What does U11C3 mean?

U11C3 stands for "ESM Lost Communication With TCM On DPT CAN." U11C3 is a Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/RAM (Stellantis) manufacturer-specific network code indicating the Electronic Shift Module (ESM) has lost communication with the Transmission Control Module (TCM) over the DPT (Dedicated Powertrain) CAN bus. It sets when the ESM cannot exchange messages with the TCM for more than roughly 300 ms. Because the shifter and transmission can no longer reliably communicate, it can cause shifting problems, no-start or no-shift conditions, and limp/default behavior.

What are the most common causes of U11C3?

The most common causes of U11C3 are: Faulty or corroded wiring/connectors between the ESM and TCM on the CAN DPT bus, Open, short, or high-resistance in the CAN bus circuit (CAN-high/CAN-low) or loss of bus terminating resistance, Failed or internally faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM), Failed or faulty Electronic Shift Module (ESM), Poor power or ground supply to the TCM or ESM, Damaged connector pins (bent, pushed-out, spread, or corroded terminals). The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix U11C3?

Repair costs for U11C3 range from $800 to $4,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by U11C3?

Au7o has documented U11C3 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Mercedes-Benz.

Sources (3)

  • Forum48V Battery Malfunction Dec 2023 Mercedes GLE Premium Mild Hybrid - MBClub UK
  • articleCheck The 48V Ground Connection - 2020-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE/GLS - OEMDTC
  • articleInvestigation of Mercedes-Benz GLE/CLS/GLS/E Battery Failure - Lemberg Law

Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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