OBD-II DTC U1044 – SCP (J1850) Invalid or Missing Data for Traction Motor
DTC U1044 meaning
DTC U1044 refers to a communication issue within the vehicle’s network, specifically indicating “Invalid or Missing Data for Traction Motor.” This code is part of the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) system and is associated with the SCP (Standard Corporate Protocol) using the J1850 communication protocol. It suggests that the Engine Control Module (ECM) is not receiving valid data from the traction motor control module, which can affect the vehicle’s performance and safety features.
DTC U1044 symptoms
Common symptoms associated with DTC U1044 may include:
- Illumination of the check engine light
- Loss of traction control functionality
- Reduced power or acceleration issues
- Erratic behavior of the vehicle’s electrical systems
- Possible warning messages on the dashboard
DTC U1044 causes
Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC U1044, including:
- Faulty traction motor control module
- Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connectors
- Software glitches in the ECM or traction motor control module
- Low battery voltage or electrical system problems
- Intermittent communication failures within the vehicle’s network
DTC U1044 seriousness
DTC U1044 is considered a moderate to serious issue. While it may not cause immediate vehicle failure, it can lead to significant performance problems, especially related to traction control and stability. Ignoring this code can result in further damage to the vehicle’s systems and may compromise safety while driving.
How to diagnose DTC U1044
To diagnose DTC U1044, follow these steps:
- Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of DTC U1044.
- Check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors related to the traction motor control module for damage or corrosion.
- Verify the functionality of the traction motor control module by checking for proper communication with the ECM.
- Test the vehicle’s battery voltage and electrical system to ensure they are within specifications.
- Perform a software update on the ECM and traction motor control module if applicable.
How to fix DTC U1044 step-by-step instructions
To fix DTC U1044, follow these steps:
- Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
- Inspect and repair any damaged wiring or connectors related to the traction motor control module.
- Replace the traction motor control module if it is found to be faulty.
- Ensure the vehicle’s battery is fully charged and the electrical system is functioning correctly.
- Recheck for DTCs after repairs and ensure that the vehicle operates normally.
How to erase DTC U1044
To erase DTC U1044, follow these steps:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
- Turn the ignition key to the “On” position without starting the engine.
- Access the scanner’s menu and select the option to clear or erase trouble codes.
- Confirm the action and wait for the scanner to complete the process.
- Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to ensure the code does not reappear.
Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics
Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025
Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.