Severity Low
U1173

SCP Bus Communication Failure U1173

📅 Last reviewed: July 2026
What does the U1173 code mean?

The U1173 code indicates a communication failure on the SCP (Standard Corporate Protocol) network, which uses the SAE J1850 PWM physical protocol. This code is triggered when a control module receives invalid data or no data at all from the door panel or center console module responsible for managing remote control buttons (such as window, mirror, or memory function controls). This error is very common in Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles, where the network architecture relies on the J1850 bus to interconnect secondary modules with the main control module (PCM) or network interface module. Signal loss can be due to physical disconnection, a short circuit on the communication bus, or an internal failure in the transmitting module.

Low
Severity
Variable
Typical Cost
Low
Frequency

1. Commonly Affected Makes

FordLincolnMercury

2. Most Common Causes

3. Symptoms You Will Notice

4. Step-by-Step Diagnosis

1

Scan for all stored codes and check for related U-codes

2

Inspect SCP bus wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, or bent pins

3

Measure resistance across the SCP bus (should be ~60 ohms with two termination resistors)

4

Check for power and ground at the door control module (DDM/PSM)

5

Test termination resistors individually (should be 120 ohms each)

6

If wiring and power are OK, suspect a faulty module (DDM, RKE, or button panel)

5. Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive?

Yes, the vehicle is generally safe to drive, but you may experience loss of convenience features like power windows, mirrors, or remote keyless entry.

How much does it cost to fix?

Repair costs vary widely: from $50-$150 for a simple wiring repair to $200-$600 for module replacement, including diagnostics.

6. Related Codes

Need an OBD2 Scanner for the U1173? Compare the best scanners compatible with all vehicles
🛒 View OBD2 Scanners →