U0131 on 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator: Power Steering Communication Loss Causes & Fixes

What's Unique About the 2020-2024 Jeep GLADIATOR

The Jeep Gladiator (JT) and its platform-mate, the Jeep Wrangler (JL), use an Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) system, which combines an electric motor and a hydraulic pump. This system is highly sensitive to its electrical connections. Manufacturer Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for both the Gladiator and Wrangler specifically identify poor quality grounds from the factory—such as weld spatter on the frame stud, improperly secured wire eyelets, or glue from heat shrink tubing—as a primary cause for this communication failure, a unique and well-documented issue for this platform.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Complete and sudden loss of power steering assist, making the wheel very heavy to turn.
• "Service Electric Power Steering" message on the instrument cluster.
• Illuminated Electronic Power Steering (EPS) warning light.
• Intermittent return of power steering after slowing down to ~25 mph or restarting the vehicle.
• Steering feels 'locked' rather than just heavy.
• In some cases, multiple other warning lights ('Christmas tree' dash) may appear as the faulty module floods the CAN bus with errors.

Most Likely Causes

1. Poor Ground Connection at G908A or Frame 🔴 High Probability Multiple TSBs confirm manufacturing defects like poorly welded ground eyelets, weld spatter on ground studs, and glue from heat shrink interfering with the connection. Some ground nuts were reportedly never installed at the factory.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect and physically test the G908A ground behind the passenger side headlight. 🎬 Watch: How to find and fix these common bad grounds. There are often three ground studs in this area. Disassemble the ground connection, clean the eyelet and the frame stud with a wire brush or emery paper to ensure a clean, flat metal-to-metal contact.
   Typical fix: Secure the ground wire to the eyelet, clean the contact surfaces, and re-torque the ground nut to 15 N-m (11 ft-lbs). Some owners have successfully resolved the issue by moving the EHPS ground wire to an adjacent, unused ground stud. In some cases, soldering the wire to the eyelet is recommended.
   Est. part cost: $0-$5
2. Failed Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) Pump/Module 🟡 Medium Probability The control module is integrated into the pump assembly. If the internal electronics fail, the entire unit stops communicating. Forum discussions show this is a common replacement after grounds and wiring are checked. A potential fire risk at the pump's electrical connector is also under NHTSA investigation for 2021-2023 models.
   How to confirm: After confirming all power, ground, and CAN bus network wires have good signal at the EHPS connector, the module itself is condemned. This requires a multimeter and ideally an oscilloscope for proper CAN signal verification (CAN High ~2.6V, CAN Low ~2.4V).
   Typical fix: Replace the entire EHPS pump and module assembly. The system must be filled with Mopar Electric Steering Pump Fluid (P/N 68088485AB) and bled of air afterward.
   Est. part cost: $350-$910
3. Wiring Harness or Connector Fault ⚪ Low Probability Vibrations and exposure in the engine bay can lead to chafed wires or corrosion. TSBs mention checking for pushed-out pins in the EHPS connectors. The main connector to the EHPS pump is also the subject of a fire risk investigation.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the EHPS pump for any signs of damage, chafing, or rodent activity. Unplug the two connectors at the pump (one main power/ground, one for communication) and check for corrosion, moisture, or backed-out pins.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of wire or clean/replace the connector pigtail.
   Est. part cost: $10-$100
4. Blown Fuse or Loose Fuse Block Connection ⚪ Low Probability Owners have reported that fuses in the main power distribution center (fuse box) can work themselves loose, causing intermittent power loss to modules. This can affect the entire fuse array or individual fuses.
   How to confirm: Check the main fuse block under the hood. Specifically check the high-amperage fuse for the EHPS pump (labeled N6 in the fuse array) and the control fuse (F34) and ensure they are fully seated and not blown. In some cases, the entire Power Distribution Unit (PDU) has been found to be faulty.
   Typical fix: Reseat or replace the affected fuse. If the fuse socket is the problem, the entire fuse block (PDU) may need repair or replacement.
   Est. part cost: $1-$20 for a fuse, $300+ for a PDU

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Battery or Charging System: In cold weather, some owners report that the power steering fails during high electrical load (like after a cold start) when battery voltage is fluctuating, suggesting the sensitive module shuts down.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan the vehicle for any other Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Note if U0131 is the only code present, or if other communication codes are stored.
2. Check battery voltage and the charging system to ensure voltage is stable and between 13.2V and 14.5V when running.
3. Perform a thorough inspection of the EHPS grounds. This is the most critical step. Locate ground G908A behind the passenger headlight. There are three studs in this area; the EHPS ground is typically the top one.
4. Disassemble the ground(s). Clean the wire eyelet and the mounting stud on the frame with a wire brush or emery cloth to remove all paint, glue, and weld spatter.
5. Reassemble the ground connection, ensuring the nut is tight. TSB S2208000063 specifies a torque of 15 N-m (11 Ft-Lbs). As an alternative fix, consider moving the wire to the unused middle ground stud.
6. Inspect all fuses related to the power steering system in the under-hood fuse box (PDU). Press down firmly on all fuses to ensure they are seated. Specifically check fuse N6 and F34.
7. If the problem persists, inspect the electrical connectors and wiring harness at the EHPS pump for damage, corrosion, or pushed-out pins.
8. Using a multimeter, verify battery power, a solid ground, and ignition-on power at the EHPS connector.
9. If possible, use an oscilloscope to verify the presence of CAN bus signals (CAN High should be ~2.6V, CAN Low ~2.4V).
10. If all wiring, power, and grounds are confirmed to be good, the EHPS pump/module assembly is faulty and requires replacement.
🎬 See this walkthrough on how to remove the EHPS pump.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) Pump (OEM #68630796AA) — This is the complete unit containing the pump and the control module that fails to communicate. If grounds and wiring are good, this entire assembly must be replaced.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $343-$910 (A $75 core charge may apply).
  Aftermarket price range: $250-$600

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• S2208000063 REV.A: Details the loss of power steering assist from U0131, pointing to a poorly secured ground wire at the G908A ground eyelet and recommends cleaning the stud or soldering the wire.
• S1919000004 REV.A: Mentions U0131 causing a 'Service Electric Power Steering Message' and advises checking EPS grounds for weld spatter or glue from heat shrink tubing.
• S2019000005RevB: Confirms U0131 causes the EPS light to turn on and advises following standard diagnostics for power and ground circuits.
• TSB 08-074-20: While not directly for U0131, this TSB addresses general steering wander and involves replacing the aluminum steering gear with a steel one and updating EHPS software, which is relevant context for the system.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• TSB S2208000063 REV.A specifically identifies the G908A ground behind the passenger headlight as a potential failure point where the wire is not fully welded or secured to the eyelet.
• TSB S1919000004 REV.A warns technicians to look for weld spatter on ground studs or excess glue from heat shrink tubing that prevents the ground eyelet from making a flat, secure connection to the frame.
• A class-action lawsuit and NHTSA investigation are active for 2021-2023 models concerning a fire risk originating from the EHPS pump's electrical connector, which can occur even when the vehicle is off.
• Some owners on forums suggest a permanent fix is to move the EHPS ground wire from the top G908A stud to the unused middle stud in the same location behind the passenger headlight.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• CAN Bus Resistance — expected: 54-69 Ω, typically ~60 Ω. Failure: >69 Ω suggests an open circuit or missing termination resistor. <54 Ω suggests a short between CAN lines.
• CAN Bus Voltage (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: CAN C High (Pin 2 on EHPS C2 connector): ~2.6V. CAN C Low (Pin 1 on EHPS C2 connector): ~2.4V.. Failure: Voltages that are stuck high/low, do not mirror each other, or do not add up to ~5.0V indicate a bus fault.
• EHPS Module Operating Voltage — expected: 10V to 16V. Failure: Voltage below 10V will cause the module to shut down and disable assist.
• EHPS Main Power and Ground — expected: Full battery voltage at Pin 2 of connector C1. Continuity to ground (near 0 Ω) at Pin 1 of connector C1.. Failure: No voltage or high resistance on the ground circuit indicates a problem with the 125A fuse (N6), main power wire, or the G908A ground connection.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (Dealer Tool) or equivalent: Flash Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) Pump — Used to update the module's software to the latest version, which can resolve software-related glitches or is required after module replacement.
• wiTECH (Dealer Tool) or equivalent: EHPS Verification Test — This is a routine performed after a repair or module replacement to confirm that the entire system is functioning correctly and communicating with the rest of the vehicle.
• wiTECH (Dealer Tool) or equivalent: Clear DTCs — After any repair, all DTCs in all modules should be cleared. The system should then be re-tested to see if the U0131 code returns.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• G908A — On the frame behind the passenger side headlight assembly. It is typically the top of three ground studs in that location.. This is the specific ground point for the EHPS pump module. Multiple TSBs identify a poor connection here (due to weld spatter, paint, or loose eyelets) as the primary cause of U0131.
• EHPS Connector C1 (Main Power) — The larger of two connectors on the EHPS pump assembly.. This connector supplies the high-amperage power and ground for the electric motor. Pin 2 is the 12V+ feed from the 125A fuse (N6). Pin 1 is the ground wire to G908A. A fault here starves the module of power.
• EHPS Connector C2 (Communication) — The smaller of two connectors on the EHPS pump assembly.. This connector carries the communication and logic signals. Pin 1 is CAN C (-), Pin 2 is CAN C (+), and Pin 3 is the ignition run/start signal. A fault here prevents the module from communicating, directly causing U0131.
• CAN C Star Connector — Behind the passenger side kick panel/glove box area.. This is a central hub where all CAN C modules connect. A technician can disconnect modules one by one at this point to isolate a single faulty module that may be disrupting the entire network. The EHPS pump is one of the modules connected here.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Jeep Gladiator Forum user, dealer technician notes (2020 Jeep Gladiator Max Tow) — Repeated power steering failure, U0131 code.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial pump replacements did not last.
  ✅ What actually fixed it A thorough diagnostic procedure was performed. The technician tested power (12.4V), ground, and CAN C continuity (0.8 ohms) to the EHPS pump and found all circuits were good. With all wiring confirmed to be intact, the EHPS pump/module assembly itself was condemned and replaced, which resolved the issue.
• YouTube video by 'Tech28' (2020 Jeep Gladiator) — Massive communication failure across multiple modules (114 faults), wipers and fan running constantly, no-start condition.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Checking for obvious visual damage (vehicle was covered in mud).
  ✅ What actually fixed it The technician diagnosed a CAN bus network failure with abnormally high voltages. By disconnecting modules one by one at the Star Connector, the fault was isolated to the EHPS pump circuit. The final repair was replacing the EHPS pump, which was internally shorted and taking down the entire vehicle network.
• YouTube video, repair on a similar platform (2020 Jeep Cherokee V6) — U0131, no power steering, multiple dash warning lights (traction, check engine, etc.).
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Owner initially suspected the entire steering rack needed replacement.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The technician tested voltages at the main fuse block (Power Distribution Center) and found an abnormal reading on the main fuse for the power steering pump. The entire fuse block assembly was replaced with a known-good unit from a parts vehicle, which completely resolved the power steering failure and cleared the U0131 code.

"I Checked Everything" — The Actual Cause

• In the context of this electrical code, the equivalent of a 'smoke test clean' scenario is when all wiring tests (power, ground, continuity, and resistance) come back normal. In a documented dealer repair, after verifying with a multimeter that all power, ground, and CAN bus circuits to the EHPS pump were within spec, the technician concluded the fault must be internal to the EHPS pump/module assembly. Replacing the pump fixed the vehicle, proving the module itself was the point of failure despite the external wiring being intact.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• While the most common fixes for U0131 on the Gladiator are the G908A ground and the EHPS pump itself, a documented case on the similar Jeep Cherokee platform showed that a faulty main fuse link within the Power Distribution Center (fuse box) was the true cause. The owner replaced the entire fuse box assembly to fix the problem after confirming abnormal voltage at the fuse. This highlights the need to not only check if fuses are blown, but to confirm the integrity of the fuse box that supplies power to the module.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68630796AA → Varies — Part numbers for electronic modules are frequently updated by the manufacturer to address hardware or software revisions.
  Heads up: It is critical to provide the vehicle's VIN to a dealer at the time of purchase to ensure you receive the latest, correct part number for your specific build. Installing an incorrect or outdated module may result in programming failure or improper operation.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2021-2023: These model years are subject to an NHTSA investigation and a class-action lawsuit regarding a potential fire risk from the EHPS pump's main electrical connector. This suggests a potential manufacturing or design issue with the connector or pump assembly specific to this period, although the U0131 fault itself can occur on all 2020-2024 models.