U1504 On Chrysler vehicles, U1504 is a network code for an implausible message length from the steering angle sensor

Implausible message data length from steering angle sensor (Chrysler)

U1504 in short

On Chrysler vehicles, U1504 means the steering angle sensor sent a message of the wrong length. FCA bulletins treat it as a PCM software issue on 2012-2015 Darts and 2015 Chrysler 200s, but owners also report clockspring and stall faults. Because stability and airbag systems are involved, get it checked soon.

The steering angle sensor reports wheel position to the engine computer and stability systems. When a message arrives in the wrong length, the receiving module stores U1504.

FCA bulletin 18-022-17 lists U1504 with P0128 and P0335 and prescribes reprogramming the engine computer on 2015 Chrysler 200 and 2012-2015 Dart. One 2015 Chrysler 200 owner was told the airbag clockspring needed replacing, and another had a stall and shut-off with the shifter lights flashing and U1504 stored.

This page speaks only for Chrysler; the same code appears in Jeep bulletins but is not covered here.

Pick your make

U1504 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. Engine computer software that needs a flash

    Supported by vehicle data
    Why it ranks here
    FCA 18-022-17 names U1504 on Chrysler 200 and Dart and prescribes reprogramming the PCM.
    What would change this
    Rises on 2015 Chrysler 200 and 2012-2015 Dart with software not updated. Falls if the update was done.
    How to test the engine control module (ecm / pcm)

  2. Steering angle sensor or clockspring fault

    Supported by vehicle data
    Why it ranks here
    A 2015 Chrysler 200 owner was told the airbag clockspring needed replacing after U1504 set.
    What would change this
    Rises when the airbag light is on or steering controls fail. Falls after a flash clears the code for good.

  3. Power distribution or network fault

    Possible — needs testing
    Why it ranks here
    A 2015 Chrysler 200 stalled and shut off with U1504 stored; another had U1504 with a power distribution fault blamed by shops.
    What would change this
    Rises when many other codes are stored. Falls if only U1504 is present.

What to test first

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

  1. Read all codes, note whether airbag or stability lights are on, and ask a dealer whether the PCM software on your 200 or Dart is current.

    Low riskTool: scan tool that reads all modules

  2. Have a technician check the steering angle sensor, clockspring, network and power distribution.

    Best left to a shop

    Warning:The clockspring carries airbag circuits; leave work there to a trained technician.

Symptoms

  • Check engine light
  • Airbag or stability warning light Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.
  • Stall and no restart with flashing shifter lights 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

Chrysler

  • 2015–2016 · 200

    Supported by vehicle data

    FCA lists U1504 in a PCM flash bulletin; owners report clockspring and stall faults with the code.

  • 18-022-17 REV. AStatus unverified

    Flash: powertrain diagnostic and system improvements, U1504

    2015200 · NHTSA 10217575

    Reprograms the PCM for U1504, P0128 and P0335. Only the NHTSA summary was read.

    We couldn't confirm whether this bulletin is still current, so it doesn't count as confirmation.

All Module network (CAN bus) communication codes

Sources and review

  1. NHTSA complaint ODI 1609500: 2015 Chrysler 200 — NHTSA (owner complaint)
  2. NHTSA complaint ODI 1617167: 2015 Chrysler 200 — NHTSA (owner complaint)
  3. FCA 18-022-17 Rev. A (NHTSA 10217575): PCM flash, U1504 implausible message data length from steering angle sensor — NHTSA (manufacturer communication)
  4. NHTSA complaint ODI 1594053: 2015 Chrysler 200 — NHTSA (owner complaint)
Last reviewed
Written by
Saurabh K.
Editorial 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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