U1120 Manufacturer code: on Jeep and Dodge, U1120 means a module lost the wheel distance message it expects over the vehicle network

Lost wheel distance message (Jeep, Dodge)

U1120 in short

On Jeep and Dodge, U1120 means a module lost the wheel distance message it expects over the network. It usually appears with U1110 and an ABS communication code such as U0121, so the ABS module or its wiring is the main suspect. Brake and stability systems may be affected, so get it checked soon.

U1120 is a manufacturer code, so its meaning depends on the make. On Jeep and Dodge it is read as a lost wheel distance message: a module expected the wheel distance broadcast on the network and stopped getting it. Other makes may use U1120 differently; their meanings are not covered here.

Owner and shop readouts on Jeep Compass, Wrangler and Cherokee and on the Dodge Caliber show U1120 stored with U1110 and U0121 or U0416. Those companion codes point at the ABS or stability control module and its network link rather than at U1120 alone.

Because the brake and stability systems are involved, diagnosis belongs with a professional. There are no safe DIY fixes.

Pick your make

U1120 is a manufacturer-specific code: its meaning depends on who built the car.

Other makes: meaning not verified. Check with a scan tool that reads manufacturer definitions.

Most likely causes

  1. ABS or stability control module not communicating

    Supported by vehicle data
    Why it ranks here
    Jeep and Dodge readouts show U1120 alongside U0121 (lost communication with the ABS module) or U0416 (invalid data from the stability control module).
    What would change this
    Rises if U0121 or U0416 is stored and the ABS module drops off the scan tool. Falls if the ABS module communicates normally and stores no faults.
    How to test the brake system control module (abs module)

  2. Wiring, connector or ground fault on the data network

    Common general cause
    Why it ranks here
    Network faults are usually in the harness, and a Jeep Compass readout added U0002 (bus performance) to the list, which points at the network itself.
    What would change this
    Rises if U0002 or several lost-communication codes appear or the fault comes and goes over bumps. Falls if the bus tests clean.

What to test first

Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.

  1. Have every module scanned, especially the ABS module, and note which codes are current and which are history.

    Low riskTool: scan tool that reads all modules

    • IfU1120 with U0121 or U0416

      It meansThe ABS or stability module link is the focus.

      Go to step 2

    • IfU1120 with U0002 or many U-codes

      It meansThe network itself may be faulty.

      Go to step 2

  2. Have a shop check the ABS module power, grounds, connector and network wiring, and check for bulletins on your VIN.

    Best left to a shopTool: scan tool and multimeter

    Warning:Brake system diagnosis and repair should be done by a professional.

Symptoms

  • ABS, traction control and brake warning lights
  • Speedometer drops to zero or shows dashes
  • Check engine or service transmission light
  • Loss of power while driving Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.

How to fix

This is a safety-critical system, so we explain the code but don't give repair steps. Have it inspected by a qualified technician.

On your vehicle

Jeep

Dodge

  • 2007 · Caliber

    Supported by vehicle data

    Speedometer dropped to zero with ABS and brake lights; U1120 with U0416.

  • 2015 · Journey

    Possible — needs testing

    A technician on iATN describes U1120 as wheel distance message lost, with MIL, ABS and traction lights and brake lights not working; the cause was not found.

  • U1110Manufacturer code: on Jeep and Dodge, U1110 means a module lost the vehicle speed message it expects over the vehicle network

    Shares causes Supported by vehicle data

    Jeep and Dodge readouts show U1110 and U1120 set together.

  • U0121Lost communication with the anti-lock brake (ABS) module

    Shares causes Supported by vehicle data

    Jeep owners report U1120 with U0121, lost communication with the ABS module.

  • U0416A module received implausible data from the stability control (vehicle dynamics) module

    Shares causes Possible — needs testing

    A 2007 Dodge Caliber stored U1120 with U0416 invalid data from the stability control module.

  • U0002The high-speed CAN bus is still working but with too many errors or a poor signal

    Shares causes Possible — needs testing

    A 2019 Jeep Compass stored U0002 with U1120.

All Module network (CAN bus) communication codes

Sources and review

  1. NHTSA complaint ODI 11770434: 2015 Jeep Wrangler — NHTSA (owner complaint)
  2. NHTSA complaint ODI 10643936: 2007 Dodge Caliber AWD — NHTSA (owner complaint)
  3. NHTSA complaint ODI 11748014: 2019 Jeep Compass — NHTSA (owner complaint)
  4. NHTSA complaint ODI 11432839: 2014 Jeep Cherokee — NHTSA (owner complaint)
  5. ASE L1 study guide: Network U-codes — Open Exam Prep
  6. IATN TechMail summary: U1120 on a 2015 Dodge Journey — iATN
Last reviewed
Written by
Saurabh K.
Editorial review
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Technician review
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This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error

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