U0164: Lost Communication With HVAC Control Module
What Does U0164 Mean?
U0164 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Lost Communication With HVAC Control Module. This code relates to the network communication system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 2 different vehicle models.
Common Causes
- 🔍 Sensor or control module malfunction
U0164 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"CODE U0164 :DATA COMMUNICATION WITH THE CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM HAS BEEN LOST OR INTERRUPTED. CODE U0155 : DATA COMMUNICATION WITH THE INSTRUMENT PANEL SYSTEM HAS BEEN LOST OR INTERRUPTED. RECEIVED THESE CODES FROM ON STSR TOOK MY VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP NEXT DAY THEY SAID THEY FOUND NO ERRORS. BUT, "
— Chevrolet Cruze owner, 06/21/2018
"Hi, There are numbers of recalls and 3 of the recalls came back. I got engine light with the codes U0402 Implausible Data Received From TCM U0164 Lost Communication With HVAC Control Module TCM BCM and PCM needs to be reprogrammed or replaced. Also car is accelerating while cruise control is set"
— Jeep Cherokee owner, 10/16/2024
"ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS WHEN I START MY VEHICLE THE ALL OF THE LIGHTS ON THE SHIFTER LIGHT UP. THE DASH WILL THEN SAY THE MESSAGE "SERVICE SHIFTER NOW". THE ONLY WAY TO CLEAR THE MESSAGE IS TO SHUT MY CAR OFF AND RESTART IT. SOMETIMES 3 OR 4 TIMES IN A ROW. LAST TIME IT HAPPENED I HOOKED UP A TESTER T"
— Jeep Cherokee owner, 02/18/2019
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for U0164
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | JEEP CHEROKEE | |
| 2 | CHEVROLET CRUZE |
U0164 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes communication codes?
Can a bad battery cause network codes?
What To Do Next
Possible Fixes
- 🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
- 🔧 Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
- 🔧 Check battery voltage and ground connections; inspect CAN bus wiring
- 🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)
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1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.