U0184 — Lost Communication With Radio

What Does U0184 Mean?

U0184 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Lost Communication With Radio. This code relates to the network communication system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 3 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of U0184

⚠️ Airbag warning light on

U0184 Reports by Year

2019

1

2017

1

2022

1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"MY BATTERY COMPLETELY DIED AND I NEEDED A JUMP. THE JUMP ENDED UP NOT WORKING SO I PURCHASED A NEW BATTERY. NOW THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND WILL NOT GO OFF. AFTER RESEARCHING THIS PROBLEM I SEE THAT THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE AND STILL NO RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE A 2013 CHEVROLET MALIBU ECO. THE FOR"
— Chevrolet Malibu owner, 06/28/2019

"The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact received notification of an undisclosed recall. The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned off, the front passenger’s side headrest deployed inadvertently. The contact stated that a handheld diagnostic machine retrieved DTC: U0184. The veh"
— Dodge Avenger owner, 08/25/2017

"While driving down a busy road automatic braking engaged for no reason causing the Acadia to abruptly come to a dead stop in the middle of the road with nothing in front of me. Red collision lights came on at the same time as braking with no prior warnings. Could not get the car to move for a few mi"
— Gmc Acadia owner, 09/22/2022

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for U0184

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

#	Vehicle	Reports
1	CHEVROLET MALIBU
2	DODGE AVENGER
3	GMC ACADIA

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes communication codes?

Usually a wiring issue, corroded connector, failed module, or dead battery. The CAN bus network connects all your car's computers.

Can a bad battery cause network codes?

Yes. Low voltage can cause communication failures between modules. Always check battery health first — it's the cheapest potential fix.

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
🔧 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)

1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

U0184: Lost Communication With Radio