U0140 on 2011-2018 Jeep Compass: Lost Communication with BCM/TIPM Fixes

What's Unique About the 2011-2018 Jeep COMPASS

The 2011-2017 first-generation (MK) Jeep Compass and its platform mates (Patriot, Caliber) are well-known for issues with their Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). This isn't just a simple fuse box; it's a complex computer prone to internal failures that can cause a vast array of strange electrical problems. The U0140 code is frequently a direct result of these TIPM issues, so much so that Jeep issued several service bulletins (TSBs) pointing to software updates as a primary fix before condemning the expensive TIPM unit itself.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Generation note: This range covers the first generation (MK, 2011-2017) and the first year of the second generation (MP, 2018). The provided TSBs and the widely documented TIPM problems are primarily associated with the first-generation (MK) models. The 2018 model was part of a complete redesign with different architecture, though communication codes can still occur.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Vehicle may not start or may stall while driving
• Erratic operation of headlights, wipers, or horn
• Power windows and door locks not working
• Multiple unrelated warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., ABS, traction control)
• Poor or slow acceleration, feeling like the car is in 'limp mode'
• Dashboard cluster not working
• Car goes dead, but starts after disconnecting and reconnecting the battery

Most Likely Causes

1. Software Glitch in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🔴 High Probability Manufacturer TSBs #1806416 and #18-083-16 explicitly state that software enhancements are available to correct this false DTC. This should always be the first diagnostic step.
   How to confirm: A Jeep dealership or a properly equipped independent shop using wiTECH software can check the current software calibration of the PCM against the latest version available from the manufacturer.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming the PCM with the updated software. This is often referred to as 'flashing' the module.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Failing Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) 🔴 High Probability The TIPM on first-generation Compass models is a known failure point, leading to a wide range of electrical and communication issues. Internal relay failures are common.
   How to confirm: After ruling out software and wiring, a technician can use an advanced scan tool to monitor communication with the TIPM. If the module is intermittently dropping offline or failing to respond, it is likely faulty. A temporary fix after a stall by disconnecting the battery is a strong indicator of a failing TIPM.
   Typical fix: Replacement of the TIPM. The new unit must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN, though many remanufactured units come pre-programmed.
   Est. part cost: $500-$1200
3. Wiring or Connector Issue 🟡 Medium Probability Wires in the CAN bus network can become damaged. More commonly, the main connectors at the TIPM can suffer from corrosion (white or green powder), or the ground wires for the module can corrode and break.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness going to the TIPM for any signs of damage, chafing, or corrosion. Unplug the connectors and check for pushed-out pins or corrosion on the pins themselves. A multimeter can be used to check for continuity and shorts on the CAN bus wires (pins 6 and 14 at the OBD-II port should show ~60 ohms of resistance with the battery disconnected).
   Typical fix: Repairing the damaged section of wire, cleaning the connectors, or replacing corroded connector pins.
   Est. part cost: $10-$100
4. Weak or Failing Battery ⚪ Low Probability Low system voltage can cause various electronic modules to malfunction and drop off the communication network, triggering false codes.
   How to confirm: Test the battery voltage with a multimeter. It should be above 12.4V with the engine off and around 13.7-14.7V with the engine running.
   Typical fix: Recharge or replace the battery.
   Est. part cost: $150-$300

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Gateway Module (if separate from TIPM): On some vehicle network architectures, a separate gateway module facilitates communication. If this module fails, it can cause U-codes, but on the Compass, this function is typically within the TIPM.
• Aftermarket Accessory Interference: Improperly installed remote starters, alarms, or audio equipment can interfere with the CAN bus network and cause communication codes.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for any applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle's VIN. Prioritize the software update mentioned in TSBs #1806416 and #18-083-16.
2. Test the vehicle's battery and charging system to ensure voltage is stable and within the correct range (12.4V+ off, 13.7-14.7V running).
3. Using a professional scan tool, attempt to communicate with all modules on the network. Note if the Body Control Module/TIPM is responsive.
4. Disconnect the battery. Unplug and inspect the main connectors at the TIPM for any signs of corrosion (white/green powder), water intrusion, or pushed-out pins.
5. Visually inspect the wiring harness around the TIPM and engine bay for any obvious signs of damage, chafing, or melting. Pay close attention to ground wire attachment points.
6. With the battery still disconnected, use a multimeter to check the resistance between Pin 6 and Pin 14 of the OBD-II port. A healthy CAN bus should read approximately 60 ohms.
7. If software, battery, and wiring/connectors are all confirmed to be good, the TIPM is the most likely failed component.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) (OEM #Varies by year. Examples: 04692341 (2011-2014), 68289246AA / 68289248AA (2016-2017). Always verify with VIN.) — This is the BCM for the vehicle and a very common failure point on first-generation models, causing a host of electrical and communication problems including U0140.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Cardone (Remanufactured), MAKS TIPM Rebuilders (Remanufactured)
  OEM price range: $700-$1500
  Aftermarket price range: $400-$900 (Remanufactured, often pre-programmed)

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P219A — This Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance code is specifically mentioned in TSB #1806416 as appearing alongside U0140, likely as a secondary fault caused by the communication issue.
• P0335 — This Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit code is noted in TSB #1806416. The PCM may falsely report this sensor issue when its communication with the BCM/TIPM is disrupted.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• Bulletin #1806416: Addresses MIL illumination with DTC U0140 and recommends a software enhancement for 2011-2014 models.
• Bulletin #18-083-16: Specifically calls out U0140 on 2012 models and provides a software enhancement fix.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• TSB #1806416 and #18-083-16 directly address code U0140 on 2011-2014 models, indicating a PCM software update is required to fix the issue. This should be the first step in diagnosis.
• Corrosion in the large electrical connectors that plug into the bottom of the TIPM is a frequent cause of this code and other electrical issues. Cleaning these connectors or repairing corroded pins can sometimes resolve the problem without replacing the entire TIPM.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• CAN Bus Network Resistance — expected: Approximately 60 Ω (ohms) when measured between Pin 6 (CAN-H) and Pin 14 (CAN-L) on the OBD-II port with the battery disconnected.. Failure: A reading of ~120 Ω suggests an open in the bus or a missing terminating resistor. A reading near 0 Ω indicates a short between the CAN-H and CAN-L wires.
• CAN Bus Voltage (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: CAN-H (Pin 6 to ground) should be ~2.6V to 3.0V. CAN-L (Pin 14 to ground) should be ~2.4V to 2.0V.. Failure: Voltages stuck at 0V, 2.5V, or battery voltage can indicate a short to ground, short to each other, or short to power, respectively.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (or equivalent professional scanner): Flash Reprogram TIPM / PCM — This is the primary repair procedure specified by Jeep TSBs for false U0140 codes. It updates the module's software to correct communication logic errors.
• wiTECH: View Network Topology / View Active DTCs in all Modules — To get a complete picture of which modules are online and which are reporting communication loss. If only the PCM reports loss of communication with the TIPM, the issue is more isolated. If multiple modules lose communication, it points to a more systemic network failure.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Main Chassis Grounds (G1, G11, G12) — On the vehicle body/frame, near the battery tray in the engine compartment.. These are the primary ground points for the TIPM and other critical electronic components. Corrosion or a loose connection here creates high resistance, which can cause modules to drop off the network and trigger a U0140 code. Cleaning these grounds is a crucial and low-cost diagnostic step.
• TIPM Harness Connectors (C1-C11) — Plugged into the bottom of the TIPM (the main fuse box) in the engine bay.. These ten connectors are the direct interface for all power, ground, and communication signals for the TIPM. They are highly susceptible to corrosion from moisture. A single corroded pin on a CAN bus wire within one of these connectors can bring down the entire network and is a very common cause of this code.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube video by user 'filippos Filippou' (2009 Jeep Patriot (platform mate to the Compass)) — No crank, no start condition. The instrument cluster displayed a 'NO BUS' message. An OBD-II scanner was unable to establish communication.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial diagnosis pointed towards a failed TIPM.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The problem was resolved by disconnecting the battery, physically removing the TIPM, and thoroughly cleaning all the electrical contacts on the TIPM connectors and the main chassis ground points near the battery. No parts were replaced.

OEM Part Supersession History

• Varies (e.g., 04692343) → Varies, but part number interpretation is key. — Part revisions and remanufacturing.
  Heads up: When sourcing a replacement TIPM, the last two letters of the part number are often manufacturing date codes and can be interchangeable. A part number beginning with 'RL' simply indicates it is a Chrysler-rebuilt unit and is a valid replacement for the original number. A 'P' or 'P/N' prefix is just a label and not part of the number.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2011-2017 (MK) vs. 2017-2018 (MP): The 2017 model year was a crossover period. The 'old style' 2017 Compass is part of the first generation (MK) and is mechanically similar to 2011-2016 models, sharing the well-documented TIPM issues. The 'All-New' 2017 Compass (and the 2018 model) is the second generation (MP), which was a complete redesign. While U0140 can still occur, the diagnostic approach should not assume the same high probability of a classic TIPM failure as on the MK platform.