OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Code
U0133 — Lost Communication With Yaw Rate Sensor Module (also see U0123)
U0133 is assigned to lost communication with a yaw rate sensor module, as in U0123; some manufacturers use it for a secondary or alternate yaw or inertial sensor. The reporting module did not receive the expected sensor messages. Check OEM information for which sensor is involved.
Severity 3/5
Truck-relevant
Service this week
Severity
Service this week
Lost Communication With Yaw Rate Sensor Module (also see U0123)
Code
U0133
Category
Network
Subsystem
Network
Truck-relevant
Yes
What this means for truckers
Service within a few days on a Cummins X15, Detroit DD15, PACCAR MX-13. Performance is likely degraded. Continuing to drive without service risks additional component damage.
Before you replace parts — try this first
U0133 on the Network system is most often loose or corroded sensor connector — not a dead part. On commercial diesels especially, work these in order before spending money on parts:
- Confirm the symptoms. Match what your truck is doing to the Symptoms section below. If the code is set but the symptoms are not there, clear the code and re-test after a drive cycle — it may not return.
- Clean and dry the sensor connector. Water, road salt, or oil seeping into a connector is the #1 fake sensor failure. Disconnect, look for green corrosion or moisture, spray with electrical contact cleaner, dry, reseat. Many faults clear here for $0.
- Inspect the wiring harness. Trace the wire from the sensor toward the ECM — look for chafing against the engine block, melted insulation near the turbo or exhaust, or pinch points where a clamp has rubbed through.
- Test the sensor before swapping it. Most Common Causes (below) list the expected voltage or resistance range — a $20 multimeter saves a $300 sensor swap that does not fix the problem.
- Only then, replace the part. Use the OEM or a tier-1 aftermarket. Cheap sensors throw the same code in two weeks.
Symptoms
Stability, traction and roll control warnings and those functions disabled. Base brakes unaffected.
Common causes
- CommonLoose or corroded sensor connector ($100–$400)
- OccasionalSensor power or ground fault ($50–$300)
- OccasionalNetwork wiring damage ($150–$600)
- OccasionalFailed yaw rate sensor ($300–$900)
How to fix
Identify the sensor from OEM information and check its connector
When to use: First step
Check sensor power, ground and communication wiring
When to use: When connector is good
Replace and calibrate the sensor
When to use: When wiring checks good
Affects most
No specific vehicle pattern found in our complaint database. This code can appear on any vehicle that supports OBD-II diagnostics.
Related
- → Browse all DTC trouble codes
- → Decode a VIN to check codes for your truck
- → Owner-operator maintenance guides
- → U0100 — Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A
- → U0101 — Lost Communication With TCM
- → U0102 — Lost Communication With Transfer Case Control Module
- → U0103 — Lost Communication With Gear Shift Module
- → U0104 — Lost Communication With Cruise Control Module
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code U0133?
U0133 is severity 3 — plan service within a few days. Performance is likely degraded already (you may feel reduced power, harsher shifts, or slightly worse fuel economy). Continuing to drive risks additional damage to adjacent components.
How much does it cost to fix U0133 on a commercial truck?
Total repair cost ranges $50–$900 depending on the root cause. The cheapest fix is usually the first one listed below — Loose or corroded sensor connector — which is also the most common. On commercial trucks the cost is usually higher than passenger vehicles due to part availability and shop labor rates ($120–185/hour at most truck shops, vs $90–130 at general auto shops). DIY-capable fixes (sensors, hoses, filters) are at the low end; major component replacements (turbo actuator, high-pressure fuel pump, transmission solenoid pack) are at the high end. Always diagnose with a scan tool BEFORE replacing parts — guessing wrong on a $1,500 turbo actuator when the actual issue was a $30 boost hose is a common expensive mistake.
Will U0133 fail a DOT inspection?
U0133 is generally not a direct DOT inspection fail item by itself. Inspectors focus on safety-critical systems (brakes, steering, tires, lights, hours-of-service). However, the check engine light alone can trigger additional inspection scrutiny. Best practice: fix the code and clear it before a planned inspection.
What's the difference between U0133 and related codes?
U0133 is closely related to: U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A), U0101 (Lost Communication With TCM), U0102 (Lost Communication With Transfer Case Control Module), U0103 (Lost Communication With Gear Shift Module). These codes share the same subsystem (network) and often appear together. If you see this code, scan for the full code list — fixing the root cause usually clears multiple companion codes at once. If only U0133 is set without the companions, the issue is more isolated.
How do I prevent U0133 from coming back after a repair?
For U0133 (Lost Communication With Yaw Rate Sensor Module (also see U0123)), prevention centers on the network system. Pay attention to ground connections at every PM — bad grounds are 70% of communication codes. Inspect harness routing for chafe points. Don't disconnect modules with the key on.