U0401 on 2015 Chrysler 200: Implausible Data from ECM/PCM Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2015 Chrysler 200

For the 2015 Chrysler 200, the U0401 code is very frequently linked to software logic problems in the control modules for the ZF 9HP48 (also called 948TE) 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission had a notoriously problematic launch with numerous complaints of harsh shifting, stalling, and erratic behavior. Consequently, Chrysler issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to address this specific code by reprogramming the PCM and/or TCM with updated software to correct communication errors that were present from the factory.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Transmission warning light is on
• Harsh or erratic shifting, sometimes feeling like the transmission is 'banging' into gear
• Vehicle enters "limp mode" with reduced power
• Stalling, especially when coming to a stop
• Car shuts off when coming to a complete stop
• Hesitation or jerking during acceleration
• Traction control or stability control system disabled

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated Powertrain or Transmission Control Module Software 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The 2015 model year was one of the first to use the ZF 9-speed transmission, and the initial software was plagued with bugs. Chrysler released multiple TSBs (e.g., #21-019-17 REV. A, #21-021-15 REV-C) specifically to correct software logic that causes U0401 and related poor shifting behavior.
   How to confirm: A dealer or qualified shop must use a tool like wiTECH to check the vehicle's current software calibration IDs against the latest versions available from Chrysler.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming/reflashing the PCM and/or TCM with the updated software provided in the TSB. This is often a 1-hour labor charge 🎬 Watch: How to reset and relearn your transmission control module. at a dealership.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Weak or Failing Battery 🔴 High Probability → Shop Vehicle Battery Control modules require stable voltage to communicate. A weak battery, especially the AGM type used in models with start-stop systems, can cause significant voltage drops during cranking, corrupting module communication and triggering a cascade of codes, including U0401. This is a very common and often overlooked cause on this platform.
   How to confirm: Test the battery's state of charge, cold cranking amps (CCA), and overall health with a professional battery tester. Check the alternator output voltage (typically 13.5-14.5 volts) with the engine running.
   Typical fix: Replace the old battery with a new, correct-spec (often AGM) battery. Ensure terminals are clean and tight. 🎬 See this walkthrough for a proper Chrysler 200 battery replacement.
   Est. part cost: $200-$450
3. Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM)
   How to confirm: This is a diagnosis of exclusion. If software is confirmed to be up-to-date, the battery and charging system are healthy, and all related wiring is intact, the PCM itself may have an internal fault.
   Typical fix: Replacement and programming of the PCM. This must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN.
   Est. part cost: $500-$1000
4. CAN Bus Wiring or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness between the PCM and TCM for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. A technician can perform a CAN bus network test with an oscilloscope or advanced scan tool to check for signal integrity.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of wiring or clean/replace the affected connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$200

Diagnosis Steps

1. First, test the battery and charging system. A weak battery is a very common cause of this code and should be ruled out before proceeding.
2. Connect a professional OBD-II scanner (like the dealer's wiTECH system) capable of reading manufacturer-specific codes from all modules (PCM, TCM, ABS, BCM, etc.).
3. Record U0401 and any other stored codes. Note which module stored the code.
4. Check for applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle's VIN. This is the most critical step. TSB 21-019-17 Rev. A is a primary candidate.
5. If a relevant TSB exists and the software is out of date, follow its instructions to have a dealer or qualified shop perform the software update. This is the most likely fix.
6. If software is current and the battery is good, visually inspect the wiring harnesses and connectors between the PCM and TCM for any signs of physical damage, corrosion, or looseness.
7. If all the above steps fail to identify the issue, the problem may be an internal failure of the PCM or TCM, which would require replacement and programming.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update — This is the most common fix specified by multiple manufacturer TSBs to resolve communication logic errors with the 9-speed transmission.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (Dealer Service)
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• AGM Battery — A weak or failing battery is a frequent cause of this communication code due to voltage instability. The vehicle often requires an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) type battery.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Interstate, DieHard
  OEM price range: $250-$400
  Aftermarket price range: $200-$300
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (OEM #VIN-dependent, examples include 68241721AD, 5150993AC. Always verify by VIN.) — In rare cases where a software update and battery replacement don't work and wiring is confirmed good, the module itself may have failed internally.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $800-$1200
  Aftermarket price range: $400-$800

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0887 — TCM Power Control Circuit High. Often cited in the same TSBs as U0401, indicating a related software or control issue. (TSB #21-019-17 REV. A, #21-021-15 REV-C)
• P0711 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range-Performance. Also listed in TSBs with U0401, pointing to a systemic powertrain control software problem. (TSB #21-019-17 REV. A, #21-021-15 REV-C)
• P1DAD — Input Shaft-Output Shaft Direction Correlation. Another transmission-related code that appears alongside U0401 in TSBs for software updates. (TSB #21-019-17 REV. A, #21-021-15 REV-C)
• U0100 — Lost Communication with ECM/PCM. This is a more severe version of a communication error and can appear with U0401 if the data link fails entirely or intermittently.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-019-17 REV. A: Addresses U0401 along with other CAN C and TCM power control circuit codes for transmission shift enhancements on the 9-speed auto.
• 18-022-17 REV. A: Cites U0401 as 'Implausible Data Received From ECM/PCM - Signal Invalid' along with engine solenoid codes.
• 18-023-16: Also lists U0401 as 'Implausible Data Received From ECM/PCM - Signal Invalid'.
• 21-021-15 REV-C: Mentions U0401 in a list of codes that can be resolved with a software update for powertrain issues.
• 18-019-17: Addresses U0402 (Implausible data from TCM) but also involves PCM software updates that improve overall powertrain communication.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• The 2015 Chrysler 200 is known for transmission-related complaints tied to the then-new ZF 9-speed automatic, many of which are software-based and can trigger code U0401.
• Chrysler has issued several TSBs (e.g., 21-019-17 REV. A, 18-022-17 REV. A) that specifically address U0401 by reprogramming the powertrain control modules.
• Letting the battery die completely and then replacing or jump-starting it can sometimes corrupt module communication, requiring a dealer visit for a 'realignment' procedure even if all parts are good.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• CAN C Bus Resistance — expected: ~60 Ohms. Failure: A reading of ~120 Ohms indicates a missing terminating resistor or open circuit. A reading near 0 Ohms indicates a short between CAN high and low wires.
• CAN C Bus Voltage (Bias Voltage) — expected: ~2.5 Volts on both CAN-H and CAN-L relative to ground with the key on, engine off (KOEO) and no data being transmitted.. Failure: A bias voltage resting near zero indicates a short to ground on the network.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (Chrysler Dealer Tool): Proxi Alignment (Proxy Configuration) — This procedure is required after replacing a major control module (like the PCM, BCM, or TCM) or when communication between modules has been lost. It allows the new or existing modules to be recognized by the vehicle's network configuration. Failure to perform a Proxi Alignment can cause a U0401 code.
• wiTECH (Chrysler Dealer Tool): 948TE 9 Speed Transmission Quick Learn Procedure — This must be performed after the transmission, valve body, or TCM is replaced, or as a first step to address shift quality complaints. It resets and relearns the clutch adaptive values. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with a software update to fix U0401.
• Generic OBD-II Scanner / Battery Disconnect: → Shop Vehicle Battery TCM Memory Reset — As a basic first step, a simple reset can sometimes clear temporary glitches. This can be done by disconnecting the battery for 15-30 minutes or using a scan tool function to clear transmission adaptive values. While less effective than a full Quick Learn, it can resolve minor issues.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) — For the 2.4L engine, the PCM is located in the engine bay on the passenger side (right side), under the hood near the battery and fuse box. It is typically held on by three bolts and has two large electrical connectors.. This is the source module for the 'implausible data'. Checking its connectors for corrosion or damage is a key diagnostic step.
• Main Chassis/Transmission Ground — The primary ground cable runs from the negative battery terminal to the vehicle's chassis and often has a secondary strap to the transmission case. A common failure point is the connection to the transmission, which can corrode or break.. A poor ground connection causes unstable voltage for all control modules, leading to data corruption and communication codes like U0401. On this platform, adding a supplementary ground wire is a common and effective fix for various electrical gremlins.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube user / Forum discussions (2013 Chrysler 200 (similar platform and known issue)) — Intermittent no-start, no-crank condition.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial diagnosis pointed towards complex electrical failures or a faulty ignition actuator pin.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner added a supplementary 4-gauge ground wire from the battery negative terminal directly to a bolt on the transmission case. This cost less than $10 and completely resolved the starting issues, which were likely caused by poor grounding corrupting module communication at startup.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 5150993AA, 5150993AB → 5150993AC, 68102888AB, 68284167AC — Revisions to fix hardware or software logic issues.
  Heads up: Applies to 2.4L Engine PCM. Always verify the correct part number by VIN. Using the wrong hardware revision, even if it plugs in, can cause communication errors.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2015-2016: While the U0401 code and its relation to the 9-speed transmission software was most prominent on the 2015 launch models, many of the same TSBs and software updates were extended to cover the 2016 model year as well, indicating the problem and its solutions are nearly identical for both years.