U0155

  • Network & Communication
  • Generic (SAE)
SeveritySeverity level 3 of 5: Diagnose soon.

Diagnose soon

Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.

Standard definition

Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster

This code is in our catalogue but has not yet been through editorial review, so the guidance below is limited to what our structured data supports. We publish deeper diagnostic content only after a code has been reviewed — here is why.

In plain English

CAN messages from or to the instrument cluster are missing. The cluster is the user-facing interface — speedometer, tachometer, warning lamps, fuel level, odometer — so failure is immediately visible. On some cars warning lamps from other modules can no longer illuminate either.

A trouble code records what a control module measured. It does not identify which part failed. Test before replacing anything.

Can I keep driving?
Safe to drive
Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.
Urgency
Diagnose soon
Will it pass emissions
Not affected
Check engine light
Solid
Symptoms you may notice
  • Multiple warning lights may illuminate
  • Affected modules may go into limp mode or shut down
  • Specific functions inoperative depending on module
  • Diagnostic tools may show communication faults

Many vehicles show no symptom at all beyond the warning light. The absence of a symptom does not mean the fault is not real.

Likely causes
#CauseHow oftenComponent
1Cluster unpowered or fuse blownVery common
2Cluster internal failure (common on aged TFTs)Common
3Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectlyOccasional

Ordering reflects how often each cause is responsible in general, not a probability for your vehicle. Confirm by testing.

Components involved
  • Instrument Cluster
  • CAN Bus Wiring
Sources
Definition
Generic code set (SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6) via the OBDexopen database, dedicated to the public domain under CC0-1.0.
Diagnostic guidance
Written and reviewed in-house. See our editorial policy.
Review status
Awaiting review

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