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U1262 – SCP (J1850)

Communication Bus Fault

By Reinier (Contact Me)

Last Updated 2017-08-26
Automobile Repair Shop Owner

Trouble
Fault Location Probable Cause
Code

SCP (J1850) Power supply, Wiring, Fuses,

U1262 Communication Bus Instrument cluster input
Fault sensors, PCM, GEM

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What Does Code U1262 Mean?

OBD II fault code is a manufacturer speci�c code that is de�ned
by car maker Ford as U1262 – “SCP (J1850) Communication Bus
Fault”, or sometimes as “SCP (J1850) Communication Bus Fault –
Instrument Cluster” and is set when the PCM (Powertrain Control
Module) detects a communication failure between itself and HEC
(Hybrid Electronic Cluster). Note that “SCP” in this de�nition
means “Serial Communications Protocol”, which is Ford’s
interpretation of the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers)
J1850 standard.

In simple terms, Serial Communication Protocol refers to the �ow

of data across a network that is more commonly referred to as a
“bus”. In this case, the bus is the communication system across
which the PCM delivers input data to all the instruments, warning
lights, and other indicators on the instrument cluster. Typical
information that �ows across the bus involves vehicle speed, RPM
(engine speed), engine/transmission temperatures, system
voltages, and warning lights that indicate the status of various
systems and features that may be �tted to the particular
application.

The image below shows part of a typical Ford instrument cluster

printed circuit. Note that apart from replacing this circuit board, it
is generally not possible to repair Ford instrument clusters on a
DIY basis.
Where is the U1262 sensor located?
The location of the instrument cluster is self-explanatory.
However, the PCM on most Ford models is located under the hood
on the left-hand side of the �rewall (as seen from the driver’s
seat), while the GEM (Generic Electronic Module) is usually
located under the dashboard close to, or behind the radio.

What are the common causes of

code U1262?
Some common causes of code U1262 could include the following-

Interrupted or erratic power supply to the PCM

Damaged, burnt, shorted, disconnected, or corroded wiring and/or
connectors
Blown fuses or fusible links
Defective or failed sensors that supply relevant input data to the
instrument cluster via the PCM
Failed or failing control modules that could include the PCM,
and/or the GEM (Generic Electronic Module). Note though that
control module failure is relatively rare, and the fault must be
sought elsewhere before any control module is rare.

What are the symptoms of code

U1262?
Some common symptoms of code U1262 could include the
following-
Stored trouble code and an illuminated warning light
Several other codes may be present
Depending on the exact nature of the problem, one or more(or all)
warning lights may be illuminated permanently, or no warning
lights may illuminate during self-test cycles
Engine may crank without starting
Instruments such as the fuel gauge may display incorrectly,
erratically, or may not work at all

What are common solutions to

code U1262?
The possible solutions to code U2162 are many and varied, and
could include the inspection and repair/replacement of several of
the components and systems listed below.

Mechanical:

Engine oil �lter

Engine oil level
Oil pump
Engine oil level
Oil pressure switch
Engine coolant level
Coolant thermostat
Fuel gauge
Collapsed or damaged fuel tank
Fuel tank �ller pipe/hose
Indicated fuel level
Fuel/EVAP lines
Fuel tank �ller cap
Fuel �lter (external to the fuel tank)
Fuel tank
Door, hood, and trunk adjustment
Electrical:

Fuse(s)
Bulb(s)
LED(s)
Wiring harness
Electrical connector(s)
Sensor(s)
Instrument cluster
Instrument cluster printed circuit

How serious is code U1262?

Code U1262 must be considered as serious, since functions such
as engine/transmission coolant temperatures, and the fuel level
may not be displayed correctly, if they are displayed at all.

How safe is it to still drive the car

with code U1262?
Since the vehicle’s road speed may not be displayed accurately, it
may not be safe to drive the vehicle while code U1262 remains
unresolved.

How dif�cult is it to repair code

U1262?
Non-professional mechanics should note that resolving this code
can vary from moderately dif�cult, to extremely challenging, since
in many cases, removal of the entire instrument cluster is required
to gain access to the instrument cluster wiring connector.

Also note that tracing an open circuit in the bus system involves
back-probing and testing every circuit that enters and leaves the
instrument cluster. To do this successfully requires a repair
manual that includes a wiring diagram, pin out charts, and
reference data for that particular application. Also required is a
good quality digital multimeter, as well as suitable back-probing
adapters to avoid damaging electrical connectors.

Moreover, in most cases, “U” codes cannot be diagnosed

accurately with cheap, generic code readers that cannot access
communication bus systems. If suitable diagnostic equipment is
not available, the better option is to refer the vehicle to the dealer
or other competent repair facility for professional diagnosis and
repair.

What are the common mistakes

when repairing code U1262?
Instrument clusters and/or control  modules, including PCM’s are
often replaced in error (or desperation) when the fault is more
likely to involve open circuits, damaged or short circuited wiring,
defective relays, or blown fuses.

Note that control modules should never be replaced merely

because a “U” code (module-to-module communications code) is
present. These codes do not necessarily indicate a problem, since
in some cases “U” codes can set as the result of normal self-test
or diagnostic functions performed by the OBD II diagnostic
system.
How do you troubleshoot code
U1262?

Step 1
Record all fault codes present, as well as all available freeze frame
data. This information can be of use should an intermittent fault
be diagnosed later on.

NOTE: If other codes are present, note the order in which they
were stored. Also determine their relationship with code
U1262, and if any codes relate to the power supply of the PCM,
investigate and resolve these codes before attempting a
diagnosis of U1262. Failure to do this will result in a
misdiagnosis and the distinct possibility that parts and
components will be replaced unnecessarily.

Step 2
Once it is certain that the PCM’s power supply circuits are all in
perfect working order, and that all related fuses and fusible links
are intact, attempt to clear all codes to eliminate the possibility
that this code was set as the result of normal diagnostic
processes. If the codes clear and the vehicle can be driven,
complete at least one complete drive cycle to see if any codes
return.

NOTE: If blown fuses are found, do NOT replace them until the
short circuit(s) or voltage overload(s) that caused them to blow
have been found and repaired.

Step 3
If the fault persists, refer to the manual to determine the correct
procedure to follow to remove the instrument cluster from the
dashboard without breaking or damaging anything. Note that
poor electrical connections in the instrument cluster connector is
a common cause of code U1261, but the only way to gain access
to the connector is to remove the cluster.

Step 4
Inspect the electrical connector, the instrument cluster, as well as
the cluster printed circuit board for obvious signs or evidence of
electrical or mechanical damage. Note that if the cluster itself
shows signs of internal short circuits, the better option is to
replace the cluster to ensure reliable operation of all instruments
and indicators.

WARNING:   Be aware that the instrument cluster is a

programmable module, which means that the replacement
cluster must be con�gured and integrated into the CAN bus
system. Note that the required integration/con�guration
processes vary between models and trim levels, so refer to the
manual to determine the correct procedure to follow to verify
the success (or otherwise) of the process.

Step 5
Inspect the electrical connector for evidence of damage and/or
corrosion. Pull the connector apart to inspect the pins/terminals in
both halves, but resist the temptation to make repairs if pins are
damaged or corroded. In these cases, the better option is to
replace the connector or the relevant wiring harness to ensure
proper operation of the cluster.

Step 6
Note that if the connector is undamaged, the diagnostic
procedure becomes speci�c to the model from this point
onwards.

Note that some indicators on the cluster have multiple inputs; for
instance, the brake system warning light may receive input data
from the brake �uid reservoir, the parking brake levers’ position
switch, and in some cases, the brake light switch. In practice, this
means that each circuit must be tested individually for resistance,
ground integrity, and continuity.

NOTE: if the available code reader has control functions, initiate

the diagnostic mode. This will test every circuit in the cluster,
which saves a lot of time. However, on most, if not all models it is
possible to initiate the self diagnostic mode manually without a
code reader; refer to the manual to determine the appropriate
steps on how to do this on the affected application.

Step 7
If the self-test mode reveals a problem, inspect the relevant
circuit(s) for signs of damaged, shorted, disconnected, burnt, or
corroded wiring and/or connectors between the cluster and the
relevant control module. Make repairs or replace wiring as
required if such damage is found.

Step 8
Note that if the self-test mode does not initiate or complete, it
becomes necessary to test each circuit individually, in strict
accordance with the instructions provided in the manual.   Be
aware though that this process can take many hours, and that
great care MUST be taken during the entire process to avoid
inadvertently causing short circuits that can damage wiring,
components and/or control modules.

Test one circuit at time to avoid confusion and/or

misdiagnoses. Compare all obtained readings with the values
stated in the manual, and make repairs or replace wiring as
required to ensure that all electrical values fall within the ranges
speci�ed by the manufacturer.

NOTE: To minimize the risk of damaging control modules, be

sure to disconnect all wiring from the relevant control
module(s) during resistance or continuity tests.

Step 9
If all electrical circuits check out but the fault persists, suspect
either a defective instrument cluster or one or more failed control
modules. Note though that it is far more likely far the cluster to
have failed, so refer to the manual to determine the correct
procedure to test the resistance/continuity of ALL testable
circuits in the cluster.
Note that it is NOT advisable to attempt repairs of a Hybrid
Electronic Cluster on a DIY basis. If testing reveals evidence of an
internal failure of any part of the cluster, the better option is to
replace the cluster, rather than attempting repairs that may or
may not be effective.

Step 10
Once all repairs are complete, initiate the cluster self-test mode to
verify the success of the repair. However, if the fault persists, refer
the vehicle to the dealer or other competent repair facility for
professional diagnosis and repair, since it may become necessary
to test/replace either control modules, or large sections of the
vehicles’ wiring.

Codes Related to U1262

There an known codes for Ford that are directly related to U1262
– “SCP (J1850) Communication Bus Fault – Instrument Cluster”

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