OBD Guide

B1169

Gauge Control Module Lost Communication With PCM

B1169 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Gauge Control Module Lost Communication With PCM. Common causes: damage to the wiring harness between the pcm and the instrument module, short circuit or open circuit in the rods communication circuit. Estimated repair cost: $56–278.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$56–278 (est.)

Symptoms

  • No indication of speedometer, tachometer or other instruments
  • Periodic disappearance of signals on the dashboard
  • Dashboard warning icons (such as Check Engine)
  • Inability to reset error using OBD-II scanner

Causes

  • Damage to the wiring harness between the PCM and the instrument module
  • Short circuit or open circuit in the rods communication circuit
  • Software error in instrument module or PCM
  • Circuit grounding problems
  • Malfunction of the instrument module itself

How to Fix

  1. Check the integrity of the wiring harness between the PCM and the instrument module
  2. Diagnose the CAN bus (if the car uses it for data exchange)
  3. Reset the error and check for its reappearance
  4. Update PCM or instrument module firmware
  5. Replace instrument module or PCM if necessary

Related codes

FAQ

What does the B1169 code mean?

B1169 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Gauge Control Module Lost Communication With PCM

What causes a B1169 error code?

The most common causes of B1169 include: Damage to the wiring harness between the PCM and the instrument module; Short circuit or open circuit in the rods communication circuit; Software error in instrument module or PCM; Circuit grounding problems.

How do I fix a B1169 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix B1169: Check the integrity of the wiring harness between the PCM and the instrument module. Diagnose the CAN bus (if the car uses it for data exchange). Reset the error and check for its reappearance. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with B1169?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix B1169?

The estimated repair cost for B1169 is $56–278. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat