U0253 on 2015-2021 Ford F-150: Lost Communication With APIM Explained

What's Unique About the 2015-2021 Ford F-150

The 2015-2021 F-150 range spans two distinct generations, and the cause of U0253 often differs between them. For the 14th generation (2021), Ford has issued Technical Service Bulletins indicating the code can be triggered by a software bug in the ABS module, often with no noticeable symptoms. For the 13th generation (2015-2020), the code is more frequently linked to a hardware failure of the APIM module itself, a common issue leading to a black screen or unresponsive controls.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Generation note: This guide covers the 13th generation (2015-2020) and the 14th generation (2021) F-150. For 2021 models, TSBs SSM 51329 and SSM 50290 point to a software glitch in the ABS module as a primary cause. For 2015-2020 models, the issue is more commonly a failing APIM module or a broader network fault as described in TSB SSM 46902.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Black or unresponsive center touchscreen (the most common symptom)
• Radio, navigation, or Bluetooth not working
• Apple CarPlay or Android Auto randomly disconnecting or not connecting
• Backup camera not displaying
• Warning lights on the dash, such as for the ABS or other systems
• In some cases, particularly on 2021 models with the code in the ABS module, there may be no observable symptoms at all.

Most Likely Causes

1. Failing APIM (SYNC Module) 🔴 High Probability The APIM is a widely reported failure point across many Ford models from this era, often due to internal component failure. Owners report the screen going black intermittently at first, then failing completely.
   How to confirm: If the screen is black, a soft reset (holding Power + Seek Forward) doesn't work, and fuses are good, the APIM is the primary suspect. A scan tool like FORScan will show it's not communicating on the network. If the tool can still read the APIM's configuration but the screen is black, it has likely failed internally.
   Typical fix: Replace the APIM. The new module must be programmed with the vehicle's VIN and 'As-Built' data. Many owners purchase pre-programmed units from online vendors and perform the swap themselves in about an hour.
   Est. part cost: $500-$1500
2. APIM or ABS Module Software Glitch 🔴 High Probability For 2021 models, this is a known issue documented by Ford in TSBs SSM 51329 and SSM 50290. For 2016-2018 models, TSB 20-2255 notes that many APIMs were replaced when only a software update was needed to fix performance issues.
   How to confirm: A Ford dealer or a shop with Ford's diagnostic software (FDRS) can check the module software level against the relevant TSB.
   Typical fix: Update the APIM or ABS module to the latest software level. This is a dealer-level repair.
   Est. part cost: $0 (if under warranty or covered by TSB)
3. CAN Bus Network or Wiring Issue 🟡 Medium Probability TSB SSM 46902 notes that excessive network traffic can cause this and other communication codes on 2015-2017 models. Loose or corroded connectors at the back of the APIM can also interrupt signals.
   How to confirm: Perform a network test with an advanced scan tool. Visually inspect the wiring and the main 54-pin connector on the back of the APIM for loose pins, corrosion, or damage. A wiggle test on the harness while the system is on may trigger the fault.
   Typical fix: For network traffic issues, TSB 46902 suggests a battery reset as the first step. If a wiring fault is found, repair the specific short, open, or corroded connector.
   Est. part cost: $10-$100
4. Low Battery Voltage or Power Supply Issue 🟡 Medium Probability A weak battery can cause numerous, seemingly unrelated electronic issues in modern trucks. Owners on forums frequently report that strange infotainment behavior was an early sign of a failing battery, even if the truck still starts.
   How to confirm: Test the vehicle's battery and charging system. A voltage below 12.0V at rest is a red flag. Check the specific fuses for the APIM/SYNC system (e.g., Fuse 22/23 in the passenger kick panel on some models).
   Typical fix: Replace the failing battery or blown fuse. After replacing the battery, it's recommended to reset the Battery Management System (BMS).
   Est. part cost: $2-$350

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty USB Media Hub:

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan all vehicle modules for DTCs. Note which module(s) are logging the U0253 code (e.g., ABS, BCM, FCIM).
2. If you have a 2021 F-150 and the code is in the ABS module, consult TSBs SSM 51329 and SSM 50290. The first step should be a software update.
3. If you have a 2015-2017 model with multiple U-codes, perform a battery reset first as suggested by TSB SSM 46902. Disconnect the negative terminal for at least 30 minutes.
4. If infotainment symptoms are present (black screen, etc.), attempt a soft reset by holding the radio Power button and the Right-Seek (>>) button for 10 seconds.
5. Test the vehicle's battery to ensure it is providing stable voltage above 12.0V. A weak battery is a known cause of random electronic faults.
6. Check the fuses related to the APIM and SYNC system. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct fuse numbers and locations (often in the passenger compartment fuse box).
7. Using a tool like FORScan, attempt to connect to the APIM. If the module does not respond to a network self-test, it points towards a wiring issue or a dead module. If it responds but has errors, it could be a software or internal fault.
8. If fuses and battery are good, access the APIM by removing dashboard trim. Inspect the main 54-pin electrical connector for loose pins, corrosion, or damage.
9. As a test, try disconnecting the USB media hub from the back of the APIM to rule it out as a cause of the failure.
10. If the APIM needs replacement, the new unit must be programmed to your truck's VIN and feature set using a tool like FORScan or the dealer's FDRS software.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) (OEM #GB5Z-14G371-H (example for a 2016 model, many variations exist)) — This is the SYNC computer and the most common point of hardware failure for this code, especially on 2015-2020 models. It is responsible for the black screen and loss of infotainment functions.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft, Various aftermarket (pre-programmed)
  OEM price range: $700-$1500
  Aftermarket price range: $400-$800 (Pre-programmed from vendors like All Things Sync).

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U0140 — Lost Communication with Body Control Module. This often appears with U0253 as part of a wider network communication failure, as cited in TSB SSM 46902 and owner complaints.
• U0155 — Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module. This can also be triggered by the 'network traffic' issue mentioned in TSB SSM 46902.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• SSM 51329: 2021 F-150 - U0253:00 in ABS module, fix is software update.
• SSM 50290: 2021 F-150 - U0253:00 in ABS module may not cause symptoms and should be diagnosed after other DTCs.
• SSM 46902: 2015-2017 F-150 - Multiple communication DTCs, including U0253, may be caused by excessive network traffic. Suggests battery reset.
• TSB 20-2255: 2016-2018 F-150 - Recommends software update for various SYNC performance issues before replacing the APIM.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• TSB SSM 51329: For some 2021 F-150s, this TSB advises that DTC U0253:00 in the ABS module can be corrected by updating the module's software.
• TSB SSM 50290: This bulletin for 2021 F-150s notes that U0253:00 may be stored in the ABS module without causing any observable conditions and should be disregarded unless an actual ABS concern is present. It states Ford is working on an over-the-air (OTA) update.
• TSB SSM 46902: On 2015-2017 models, this TSB links U0253 with other communication codes (U0140, U0155, etc.) and suggests the cause may be excessive network traffic. The recommended first step is a battery reset.
• TSB 20-2255: For 2016-2018 F-150s (and other models), this TSB addresses various SYNC performance issues. It notes that Ford found APIMs being replaced when a software update would have fixed the concern, and provides dealers with a universal thumb drive to perform the update.