U0416 – Invalid data received – vehicle dynamics control module
| Code | Fault Location | Probable Cause |
|---|---|---|
| U0416 | Invalid data received - vehicle dynamics control module (Buy Part On Amazon) |
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Table of Contents
- What Does Code U0416 Mean?
- Where is the U0416 sensor located?
- What are the common causes of code U0416?
- What are the symptoms of code U0416?
- Get Help with U0416
What Does Code U0416 Mean?
OBD II fault code U0416 is a generic trouble code that is defined as “Invalid Data Received From Vehicle Dynamics Control Module”, and is set when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects invalid data from one or more wheel speed sensors via the ABS control module.
NOTE #1: While the above definition of code U0416 applies to most modern vehicles in terms of wheel speed/ABS faults, this code can also be set for myriad reasons that do not involve the ABS system, wheel speed sensors, stability control, or any other function that involves the stability of the vehicle. In some cases, this code could set when faults are present in active or air-adjustable suspension systems, or where there is, at best, a tenuous relationship between exterior lighting systems and advanced driver-assist systems. Be aware though that in a large percentage of instances of this code, the root causes are never identified, and may remain unresolved throughout the affected vehicle’s useful life.
NOTE #2: It is important to note that different vehicle manufacturers use different names to describe the same thing. One case in point is the many names under which stability control systems are marketed, and this applies to ABS control modules, as well. Many manufacturers refer to this module as the Vehicle Dynamics Control Module, or something similar, so be sure to consult reliable service information for the affected vehicle to avoid confusion about the terminology used to describe the same thing by different names.
As this code relates to wheel speed sensors and their relationship to ABS braking functions and overall vehicle stability, however, the PCM collects data from a host of sensors that include yaw rate sensors, lateral accelerometers, pitch/roll sensors, and others such as the steering angle sensor to determine whether the vehicle is stable while moving. In practice, the PCM will recognize an unstable condition when it detects (at a minimum)-
- That large discrepancies exist between the rotational speeds of individual wheels
- A large lateral acceleration is occurring, as reported by lateral accelerometers and/or one or more yaw rate sensors
This information is compared to the throttle opening, road speed, engine speed, the currently selected gear, and both the rate and angle of steering inputs, which in a fully functional dynamics control system, should yield calculated wheel speeds that will almost exactly match the actual wheel speeds as measured and reported by the wheel speed sensors.
If the PCM determines that a dangerous condition, such as a potential skid is present, it will use the ABS system to apply selective braking forces (via the stability control system) to individual wheels to force the vehicle into a line that is dictated by the steering angle sensor. For this system to work as intended/designed though, the PCM needs to receive accurate data from all the wheel speed sensors, since this data is the basis upon which corrective action or remedial strategies are built by the PCM and other implicated control modules, such as the ABS control module.
One practical example of implausible data (as it relates to input data from wheel speed sensors), would be if the rotational speeds as measured and reported on one driving wheel and one non-driving wheel vary by more than a maximum allowable threshold. For instance, if one driving wheel is reported to be rotating twice as fast as a non-driving wheel, but no wheels are locked up under braking, or are not spinning under acceleration, the PCM will recognize that the inputs received from at least one wheel speed sensor are implausible.
When this happens, the PCM will recognize that is cannot control the stability of the vehicle effectively, and it will set code U0416 and illuminate one or more relevant warning lights. Note though that the PCM will typically also deactivate the ABS system, as well as others such as stability control, traction control, cruise control, and every other system that uses the ABS system to work, although normal braking functionality will remain available.
Where is the U0416 sensor located?
Since the overall vehicle dynamics control system consists of several dozen parts and components, it is not possible to provide even basic information on the location of all implicated parts on all, or even most applications here. Therefore, it might be more instructive to consider the above diagram that illustrates the basic relationships between all the various subsystems that ultimately comprise the typical vehicle dynamics control system.
As shown here, the ABS system forms the heart of the larger system topology that links all implicated systems in varying degrees of integration. Note though that all subsidiary functions flow outwards from the ABS system, which translates into the fact that when the ABS system receives implausible or inaccurate data, all related systems are affected.
What are the common causes of code U0416?
Possible causes of code U0416 are many and varied and could include causes that do not necessarily involve faults, failures, defects, or malfunctions in systems or components that are related to vehicle stability control functions- refer to NOTE #1 at the top of this article for details. Nonetheless, some known causes of this code as it relates to vehicle stability could include one or more of the following-
- Damaged, burnt, shorted, disconnected, or corroded wiring and/or connectors in any wiring in any circuit that is related to any system that controls vehicle stability
- Defective, faulty, or malfunctioning ABS control module
- Failed or failing PCM, but note that this is a rare event, and the fault must, therefore, be sought elsewhere before any control module is replaced or reprogrammed
- Faulty or defective wheel speed sensor(s)
What are the symptoms of code U0416?
- Stored trouble code and one or more illuminated warning lights
- In some cases, multiple UXXXX (Communication) codes may be present along with U0416
- One or more driver-assist or safety systems may not be available
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Hi
My land rover discovery 3 ,2,7 diesel show U0416-86 fault code.Any idea where can we find the problem?
thanks
Hi, My 2012 Mercedes ML350 Bluetec started having an issue where, while driving, the ABS light, Traction control off light, Electronic Parking brake malfunction light and Engine light comes on. After stopping the car, turning it off and back on again, all the lights go off except for the engine light but the issue comes back randomly. Not sure exactly what’s causing it but it does give out the OBD II error code, “U0416” (Invalid data received From vehicle dynamics control module. Another thing to note is, whenever the malfunction happens the steering gets very heavy. A simple restart fixes the issue temporarily as I mentioned before.
Hello,my 2006 L320 shows u0416-86 and p0504-64. When I raise the suspension to step 2 and drive, the suspension collapses to zero, I’ve change the suspension pump, ride level sensor, the three valve blocks and all the wheel speed sensors but it still collapses when I drive. Please I need your help 🙏
Hi, my range rover sports L320 TDV6 has that fault code U0416-86- invalid data received from vehicle dynamic control module. The car starts but doesn’t move, when you shift it to gear you will feel that the car is trying to move but it can’t. Maybe you can help me with this
Alex, there are several things to check.
1) verify the brake lights work normally and aren’t on all the time. Replacing the brake light switch may alleviate this issue.
2) Verify battery connections are in good shape and battery voltage stays above 12 volts during operation. Might even want to clean battery terminals and connections just to be sure.
3) after that, you will probably need a scan tool to verify the operation of other circuits. Possibly even have to perform a recalibration, which is only possible through a scan tool.
I hope this was helpful, and that you find the issue shortly.
Hi Randy, thank you very much for the info. So I replace the brake light switch and yes you’re right, it is faulty, after I replace it, the stop light works and the suspension system works, and I manage to erase all the fault code. So there is no fault code now, every thing is normal but the vehicle still won’t move, it fells like trying when you put it in gear you can hear tog louder in reverse but still not enough to move the vehicle. You recon that it’s the transmission sliding clutch pack?
Alex,
Check transmission fluid level and condition. If the level is low then add fluid to the correct level. If the fluid smells burnt and is dark in color, then the chances that the clutches are burnt is high. Only fix for that is a replacement transmission or an overhaul. Good luck I hope you get this resolved.
Hi. My car show U0416 code and will not start.
Mercedes benz A class 180 CDI. Also a U0101 codex comes up. Anything I can do to get the car started?
Hey my audi A3 is showing the code U0416-86 and the car won’t start