U0416 on 2021 Dodge Charger: Causes for Implausible ESP Data

What's Unique About the 2021-2021 Dodge CHARGER

For the 2021 Dodge Charger, code U0416 is specifically mentioned in Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #18-012-22. This TSB applies to models with the 3.6L engine built on or before October 14, 2021. It groups U0416 with a long list of other 'implausible data' and 'lost communication' codes, suggesting the issue on this platform may not be a single failed hardware part, but could be related to a software glitch that requires a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) update to resolve communication errors between multiple modules.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Symptoms You May Notice

• ABS warning light illuminated.
• Traction control or ESP/ESC warning light illuminated.
• Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) may be on.
• Cruise control may be disabled.
• Vehicle may feel less stable during hard cornering.
• Service AWD light may appear on applicable models.
• Start/Stop system may be disabled.

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor 🔴 High Probability → Shop ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Wheel speed sensors are exposed to the elements, making them susceptible to damage from road debris, moisture, and corrosion. This is a common failure point on the LD platform (Charger, 300).
   How to confirm: Use a scan tool capable of reading live data from the ABS module. Monitor the speed readings from all four wheels while driving. A faulty sensor will show erratic, inconsistent, or no reading compared to the others. A specific code, like C0037 for the left rear sensor, often accompanies the U0416.
   Typical fix: Replace the faulty wheel speed sensor. The sensor is located at the wheel hub and is 🎬 See this guide for replacing front wheel speed sensors. typically held in by a single 10mm bolt. 🎬 Watch: How to replace the rear wheel speed sensors. The electrical connector is located further up in the wheel well or on the subframe.
   Est. part cost: $25-$100
2. Software Update Required 🟡 Medium Probability TSB #18-012-22 specifically lists U0416 for 2021 Chargers with the 3.6L engine, indicating a known software issue that can cause a host of communication faults.
   How to confirm: A dealership or a properly equipped independent shop can check for and apply available software updates to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) using a wiTECH scan tool. They can verify the vehicle's build date (on or before Oct 14, 2021) to confirm TSB applicability.
   Typical fix: Reprogram the PCM with the latest available software as per TSB #18-012-22. This is a non-parts-based repair performed with diagnostic software.
   Est. part cost: $0 (if under warranty) - $200
3. Wiring or Connector Issue 🟡 Medium Probability Wiring harnesses, especially those routed to wheel speed sensors, can become damaged from road debris, improper repairs, or corrosion at the connectors.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring and connectors for the wheel speed sensors and the main ABS/ESP module. Check for chafing, breaks, or green/white corrosion in the pins. Perform a continuity test on suspect wires using a multimeter.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the corroded connector. Ensure the red locking tab on the connectors is fully seated.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50
4. Failing ABS/ESP Control Module ⚪ Low Probability → Shop ABS Control Module While less common, internal failure of the ABS module can occur, causing a variety of communication and system faults. This can sometimes manifest with codes like C2200 (Anti-Lock Brake Module Internal Failure).
   How to confirm: This is typically diagnosed by exclusion. If all wheel speed sensors, wiring, and software are confirmed to be good, the module itself is the likely culprit. A dealership-level scan tool may be able to directly communicate with the module and run internal diagnostics.
   Typical fix: Replace the ABS/ESP control module. This often requires programming the new module to the vehicle's VIN.
   Est. part cost: $180-$600

Rare But Worth Checking

• Low Battery Voltage or Charging System Fault: → Shop Vehicle Battery Control modules can behave erratically and set communication codes when system voltage is unstable or below the required threshold, especially during cold starts. A forum user with a similar vehicle reported a flurry of communication codes that were resolved by replacing an aging battery. Always check battery health and alternator output before diagnosing complex module issues.
• Faulty Steering Angle Sensor: → Shop Steering Angle Sensor The steering angle sensor provides a critical input to the ESP system. If it sends incorrect data, it can cause the ESP module to send implausible data to other modules, triggering U0416. This can sometimes be reset by turning the wheel lock-to-lock with the engine running.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check and record all Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from all vehicle modules using a capable scan tool. Pay close attention to any 'C' codes from the ABS module.
2. Verify battery voltage is stable and within the 12.4-12.8V range with the engine off. Test the battery under load.
3. For 3.6L models, consult TSB #18-012-22 to see if a PCM software update is applicable (built on or before Oct 14, 2021) and has been performed.
4. Use the scan tool's live data function to monitor all four wheel speed sensors while driving. Ensure their readings are smooth, consistent, and match the vehicle's speed.
5. If a sensor reading is erratic, visually inspect its wiring harness from the wheel hub to the main connector for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness.
6. If wiring appears intact, replace the suspect wheel speed sensor. They can become seized in the knuckle; gentle wiggling with pliers may be required for removal.
7. If all sensors and wiring are confirmed good and the TSB is not applicable or has been performed, the final step is to suspect the ABS/ESP module itself, which may require replacement and programming.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Wheel Speed Sensor (OEM #04779647AF (Rear Left), 4779646AD (Rear Right)) — This is the most frequent hardware failure that causes implausible data to be sent to the ESP module, triggering the U0416 code.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, NTK, Carquest
  OEM price range: $35-$80
  Aftermarket price range: $25-$60
• ABS/ESP Control Module (OEM #68258644AA, 68435852AF, 68399772AF (Varies by vehicle options)) — If sensors, wiring, and software are ruled out, the module itself may have an internal fault. This is the most expensive and complex repair for this code.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (OEM)
  OEM price range: $180-$600
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$450 (remanufactured)

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U0402 — Both codes are listed in TSB #18-012-22 and relate to implausible data from key modules (TCM and ESP), suggesting a common software or network issue.
• U0418 — Also listed in TSB #18-012-22, this code for 'Implausible Data Received From Brake System Control Module' is closely related to the ESP system and points to a broader communication problem.
• C-codes for Wheel Speed Sensors (e.g., C0034, C0037) — A specific wheel speed sensor fault (a 'C' code) is the underlying hardware cause for the ESP module sending 'implausible' data, which is then reported by the PCM as U0416.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-012-22: Addresses a condition on 3.6L models where multiple 'Implausible Data' and 'Lost Communication' DTCs, including U0416, can be set. The fix involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A known issue documented in TSB #18-012-22 involves the potential for the PCM on 3.6L models (built on/before 10/14/2021) to set U0416 and other communication codes due to a software issue. The prescribed fix is to reprogram the PCM with the latest software.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• CAN C Bus Voltage (High Wire) — expected: ~2.6 Volts. Failure: Significant deviation from 2.6V, or voltage jumping to 9-10V indicates a short or module failure on the bus.
• CAN C Bus Voltage (Low Wire) — expected: ~2.4 Volts. Failure: Significant deviation from 2.4V indicates a short or module failure on the bus.
• Wheel Speed Sensor Resistance — expected: 800 - 1,700 Ohms (for passive sensors). Failure: A reading in the hundreds of K-Ohms or an open circuit (OL) suggests a bad sensor. Note: This applies to older passive sensors; modern active sensors may not be testable this way.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH 2.0 / AlfaOBD / Appcar DiagFCA: ABS Initialization / Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) Calibration — This function should be performed after replacing the ABS module, steering angle sensor, clockspring, or performing a wheel alignment to reset the sensor's zero position. Failure to calibrate can cause the ESP system to receive incorrect data, potentially triggering U0416.
• wiTECH 2.0: View Network Topology — The factory scan tool can display a color-coded map of all control modules on the CAN bus networks. This is useful for quickly identifying which modules are not communicating or are on a specific sub-network (like CAN-C), helping to isolate the source of the 'implausible data' message.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• ABS/ESP Control Module — Located in the engine bay on the driver's side, next to the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is the unit with multiple metal brake lines and a large electrical connector attached.. This is the module sending the 'implausible data'. Checking its main connector for corrosion or damage is a key diagnostic step.
• CAN C Bus Wires — The high-speed CAN C bus wires are typically a twisted pair. For Dodge vehicles, the CAN High wire is White/Orange and the CAN Low wire is White.. These wires carry the data from the ESP module to the PCM. A short or break in these wires will directly cause communication codes like U0416. Technicians can tap into these wires to measure voltage and diagnose network health.
• Main Chassis Ground — A primary factory grounding point is located underneath the air intake box on the driver's side strut tower.. A poor ground connection for the ABS module or other related components can introduce electrical noise and cause erratic module behavior, leading to communication faults.
• Wheel Speed Sensor Connector — The rear sensor connector is located up behind the spare tire well, clipped to the subframe. It has a red locking tab that must be released before the connector can be separated.. This connector is a common point for moisture intrusion and corrosion. A bad connection here will interrupt the signal from the wheel speed sensor, causing the ESP module to send faulty data.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• RamForum.com user (Similar FCA Platform (Ram Truck)) — ABS light on, speedo off by 10-15 mph, multiple 'inconceivable data' codes for wheel speeds and ABS module.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Flashed original ABS module, Replaced ABS module and flashed new one, Swapped wheel speed sensors
  ✅ What actually fixed it The issue was an incorrect pinion factor programmed into the TIPM/BCM. Even though the dealer was entering the correct tire size and gear ratio, the module was not calculating speed correctly. The fix required using an older StarSCAN tool, as the newer wiTECH was not applying the setting correctly for that specific vehicle configuration. This highlights that software/programming issues can be complex and tool-dependent.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 4779647AB, 4779647AC, 4779647AD, 4779647AE → 04779647AF — Standard part revision and improvement over time by the manufacturer.
  Heads up: The latest part number, 04779647AF, is the correct service replacement for all previous versions for the rear left wheel speed sensor on this platform.