EN

Severity: Low Code type: Generic (all makes)

U0422 Code: Invalid Data Received From Body Control Module

The body control module is sending data other modules reject, often after a BCM swap or wiring add-on.

At a glance

Severity: 2/5 – Low2/5

Severity: Low

Meaning
Invalid Data Received From Body Control Module
System
Module Communication · Network
Safe to drive?
Yes, short term
Typical repair cost
$80–$1,300
DIY difficulty
Moderate

U0422 is stored by a module such as the PCM, instrument cluster, HVAC, radio or transmission module when messages from the body control module (BCM) arrive but make no sense: wrong format, out-of-range values, a failed checksum or data for options the car doesn't have. The BCM broadcasts things like ignition and key status, door, hood and seat-belt switches, brake and light switch states, outside temperature and battery monitoring data, and other modules use these for starting, start-stop, climate control and warnings. The classic trigger is a new or used BCM that was installed without being programmed and configured for that VIN and option list. Other causes are a software mismatch after one module was updated, water damage to a BCM mounted in a footwell or under the dash, low voltage, and aftermarket remote-start, alarm or trailer wiring spliced into BCM circuits.

Can I keep driving? Usually safe to drive, but features may misbehave and, on some vehicles, starting or the anti-theft system can be affected. Keep a charged battery and don't rely on the car starting reliably away from home until the BCM data is corrected.

How to read U0422

How to read U0422U10243224
  1. U Network
  2. 0 Generic (SAE)
  3. 4 Module Communication
  4. 22 Specific fault

Symptoms

  • Auto start-stop never activates
  • Intermittent no-crank or security/anti-theft light flashing on the dash
  • Outside temperature shows dashes or wrong values
  • A/C, interior lights, wipers or door locks acting strangely
  • Chimes or warnings for doors or seat belts that are actually closed
  • Code appeared right after a BCM replacement, battery work or accessory install

Possible causes

Ranked by how often each cause is behind this code (editorial estimate).

  1. Replacement or used BCM not programmed/configured with the correct VIN and vehicle options 30%
  2. BCM or receiving-module software mismatch after a partial update 20%
  3. Low or unstable voltage from a weak battery or poor BCM ground 17%
  4. Water intrusion into the BCM or its connectors (clogged cowl, sunroof or A/C drains, footwell leaks) 14%
  5. Aftermarket remote start, alarm, trailer or lighting wiring tapped into BCM circuits 11%
  6. Internal BCM failure 8%

Diagnosis step by step

Diagnostic flow: U04221Ask what changed recently2Scan every module and read the BCM3Verify BCM configuration against thevehicle4Test battery and BCM power/grounds5Look for water and add-on wiring6Program, update and relearn

  1. Ask what changed recently

    Find out whether the BCM, battery or any module was replaced or updated, and whether an accessory was installed. A new BCM without setup explains U0422 immediately and saves hours of wiring tests.

  2. Scan every module and read the BCM

    Note which modules stored U0422 and read the BCM's own codes. Configuration errors, 'not programmed' flags or supply voltage codes inside the BCM point straight at the fix.

    Tools: OBD-II scanner

  3. Verify BCM configuration against the vehicle

    With a capable scan tool, compare the VIN and option settings stored in the BCM with the vehicle's actual build (engine, transmission, start-stop, lighting, trailer tow). Wrong entries make the BCM send data the other modules don't expect.

    Tools: OBD-II scanner

  4. Test battery and BCM power/grounds

    Confirm 12.6 V at rest and 13.5 to 14.7 V running, then check BCM supply fuses and grounds for voltage drop under load, ideally under 0.2 V.

    Tools: Multimeter

  5. Look for water and add-on wiring

    Check the carpet and dash area around the BCM for dampness or stains, and inspect connectors for corrosion. Trace any aftermarket harness taps; temporarily unplugging a remote-start module is a quick test.

    Tools: Flashlight, Screwdriver

  6. Program, update and relearn

    Have a dealer or equipped shop program and configure the BCM, apply current software to the BCM and affected modules, and run any key, immobilizer or tire-pressure relearns the vehicle requires.

    Tools: OBD-II scanner

Where the parts are

Charging system and control modules – U04221234567
Charging system and control modules
  1. 1Battery
  2. 2Alternator
  3. 3Engine computer (ECM)
  4. 4CAN bus
  5. 5Transmission
  6. 6Wheel speed sensor
  7. 7High-voltage battery

Repair options & costs

RepairDIY?Estimated cost
BCM programming and configuration No $120–$300
Software update of BCM and related modules No $100–$300
Remove or correct aftermarket wiring No $80–$300
Fix water leak and clean BCM connectors No $150–$600
Replace BCM (incl. programming and key relearn) No $450–$1,300

Rough US estimates for parts and labor; shop rates vary by region. Not a quote.

Notes by brand

Field data

Chevrolet 6 Silverado 1500, Malibu, Malibu Eco

Source: NHTSA Complaints API (US government open data), analyzed by DTC mention.

Emissions / smog test impact

Depends

U0422 fails the emissions portion of a smog check only if the check engine light is on or the car won't complete its readiness monitors, which is uncommon. Safety inspections can fail it if exterior lights or wipers stop working.

Frequently asked questions

I bought a used BCM that has the same part number. Why doesn't it work?

A BCM stores the VIN, options and often immobilizer data of the car it came from. Even with the same part number it must be reprogrammed and configured for your car, or the other modules will reject its data.

Can a remote starter cause U0422?

Yes. Poorly installed remote-start, alarm or trailer modules can inject signals into BCM circuits or load down data lines. Unplugging the add-on and clearing codes is a quick way to check.

Why doesn't my start-stop work with this code?

Start-stop needs trusted BCM data about doors, hood, seat belt and battery condition. If that data is invalid, the engine module disables start-stop to be safe.

How is U0422 different from U0140?

U0140 means the BCM stopped communicating entirely. U0422 means it still talks but its messages are wrong, which usually points to configuration, software or voltage rather than a broken bus wire.

Sources