U1230 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC U1230 – SCP (J1850) Invalid or Missing Data for Electric Defrost

DTC U1230 meaning

DTC U1230 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating “Invalid or Missing Data for Electric Defrost.” This code is part of the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) system and is specifically related to the communication between the vehicle’s modules over the SCP (Single Wire CAN) network, which utilizes the J1850 protocol. When this code is triggered, it suggests that the electric defrost system is not receiving the necessary data to function properly, or that the data being received is invalid.

DTC U1230 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC U1230 may include:

• Electric defrost system not functioning
• Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
• Inconsistent performance of the heating and defrosting systems
• Other related systems may also exhibit issues

DTC U1230 causes

Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC U1230, including:

• Faulty electric defrost module
• Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connectors
• Faulty sensors that provide data to the defrost system
• Communication issues between modules on the SCP network
• Software glitches or programming errors in the vehicle’s control modules

DTC U1230 seriousness

The seriousness of DTC U1230 can vary depending on the specific vehicle and its systems. However, it is generally considered a moderate issue. While it may not pose an immediate safety risk, it can affect the vehicle’s comfort and visibility during adverse weather conditions. Addressing this code promptly is advisable to ensure proper operation of the defrost system and related components.

How to diagnose DTC U1230

To diagnose DTC U1230, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the U1230 code.
2. Check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context.
3. Inspect the wiring and connectors related to the electric defrost system for damage or corrosion.
4. Test the electric defrost module and related sensors for proper operation.
5. Verify communication between modules on the SCP network using a scan tool.
6. Check for software updates or reprogramming needs for the vehicle’s control modules.

How to fix DTC U1230 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC U1230, follow these steps:

1. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors found during the diagnosis.
2. Replace faulty sensors or the electric defrost module as needed.
3. Ensure all connections are secure and free of corrosion.
4. Reprogram or update the vehicle’s control modules if necessary.
5. Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
6. Test the electric defrost system to ensure it operates correctly.

How to erase DTC U1230

To erase DTC U1230, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn the ignition key to the “On” position without starting the engine.
3. Access the trouble codes menu on the scanner.
4. Select the option to clear or erase trouble codes.
5. Confirm the action and wait for the scanner to complete the process.
6. Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to verify that the code does not return.

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.