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U0415 on 2020-2024 Ford Explorer: Causes of the ABS Data Error and Fixes

Q: My 2020 Explorer is showing 'Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable' and a blue camera screen; does TSB SSM 49437 apply to me?

Yes, if your vehicle was built on or before December 7, 2020. This TSB addresses cases where DTC U0415 is falsely stored in the Image Processing Module B (IPMB), often causing camera flickering or blue screens. The fix is a software reprogram of the IPMB using the FDRS diagnostic tool.

Q: Can a bad battery cause the U0415 code on a 2020-2024 Explorer?

Yes. Low battery voltage is a known cause of multiple unrelated electronic faults on this platform. It is recommended to load test the battery as the first step in the diagnosis process.

Q: Is there a recall for the camera issues associated with U0415 on my 2023 Explorer?

Yes, Recall 23S23 (NHTSA 23V-339) covers 360-degree camera failures (blue or black screens) for 2020-2023 models. While U0415 can be a communication fault related to these systems, this recall specifically addresses the camera image loss.

Q: Why is my Explorer showing 'Service AdvanceTrac' and 'Hill Start Assist Not Available' along with U0415?

These messages occur because the ABS module is the source of vehicle speed data. If the ABS module sends invalid data (U0415), dependent systems like AdvanceTrac and Hill Start Assist cannot function and will trigger these dashboard warnings.

Q: Does the Lincoln Aviator suffer from the same U0415 software glitch as the Explorer?

Yes. The 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator shares the CD6 platform and electronic architecture with the Explorer and is explicitly included in TSB SSM 49437 for false U0415 codes in the IPMB.

Q: Could a mechanical issue like the rear axle bolt fracture cause network codes like U0415?

While the rear axle mounting bolt fracture (Recall 22S27) is a common mechanical failure on 2020-2022 models, U0415 is specifically a data communication code. However, physical damage to wheel speed sensor wiring near the suspension could trigger the code.

On 2020-2021 Explorers and Lincoln Aviators, code U0415 is often a false error in the camera system (IPMB), fixed with a software update per Ford's TSB SSM 49437. If camera or 'Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable' warnings are present, this is the most likely cause. Otherwise, the code points to a legitimate communication issue with the ABS module, its wiring, a wheel speed sensor, or a weak battery.

23 minutes to read 2020-2024 Ford Explorer

Most Likely Cause

Software Glitch in Image Processing Module B (IPMB)

Est. Time

2 hrs

DIY Doable?

🔧 Shop

Shop Labor

$150 – $1250

Parts Price

$0 – $800

⚠️ Drivable, but... — Yes, but with caution. Critical safety systems like ABS, traction control, AdvanceTrac, and Reverse Brake Assist may be disabled. The vehicle should be inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

Key Takeaways

For 2020-2021 Explorers with camera issues, U0415 is very likely a software bug that a dealer can fix per TSB SSM 49437.
The code means 'Invalid Data from ABS Module,' not necessarily a failed ABS module. The problem could be wiring, a sensor, or software.
Do not drive with this code indefinitely. It indicates a fault in a primary safety system (ABS and traction control).
Diagnosis requires a scan tool that can read codes from all modules, not just the engine, to know where the problem was detected.
Always check for simple fixes like damaged wiring or low battery voltage before considering an expensive ABS module replacement.

The code U0415 stands for 'Invalid Data Received From Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Control Module.' This is a network communication error, meaning a different computer on the vehicle, such as the Image Processing Module B (IPMB), Power Steering Control Module (PSCM), or Powertrain Control Module (PCM), has received data from the ABS module that it considers illogical or corrupt. The ABS module is responsible for monitoring wheel speeds to prevent wheel lock-up during braking, and it shares this data with many other systems. When this data is flagged as invalid, code U0415 is stored in the module that received the bad data, not necessarily in the ABS module itself.

What's Unique About the 2020-2024 Ford Explorer

For the sixth-generation Explorer (2020-present) and its platform-mate, the Lincoln Aviator, this code has a very specific and common cause outlined by Ford. Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), like the 360-degree camera and Reverse Brake Assist, are deeply integrated with the ABS. A known software glitch can cause the Image Processing Module B (IPMB) to falsely report this code, leading to camera system warnings. This issue was common enough on early-production models (built on or before Dec 7, 2020) to warrant a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB SSM 49437).

Professional service recommended: Diagnosing network (CAN bus) errors and working on ABS and ADAS systems requires specialized scan tools (like FORScan or Ford's FDRS) and knowledge. Improper repairs can compromise vehicle safety systems. Module replacement requires programming specific to the vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

"Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable" message on the dashboard
Camera display issues (flickering, blue screen, or no image)
Illuminated ABS warning light
Illuminated traction control or AdvanceTrac warning light
"Service AdvanceTrac" message
"Hill Start Assist Not Available" message
Power steering warnings or increased steering effort (if code is in PSCM)
"Service AWD" message

⚠️ Don't Waste Money on the Wrong Fix

Replacing the 360-degree cameras when the issue is a software glitch in the IPMB. The camera hardware itself is often fine, but the module processing the image is at fault.
Replacing the ABS module when the actual fault is a simple wiring issue or a single bad wheel speed sensor. A thorough wiring inspection is critical.

Most Likely Causes

Software Glitch in Image Processing Module B (IPMB) 🔴 High Probability Specifically affects 2020-2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator models built on or before December 7, 2020, as documented in Ford TSB SSM 49437.
How to confirm: A professional scan tool is needed to see which module stored the U0415 code. If it is stored in the IPMB, often with U3000:42, and accompanied by camera or Reverse Brake Assist symptoms, the TSB applies.
Typical fix: Reprogram the IPMB with the latest software using a Ford-specific diagnostic tool (FDRS). This is a software update performed by a dealer or qualified shop.
Est. part cost: $0 (if covered by warranty/TSB)
Failing ABS Control Module 🟡 Medium Probability The ABS module is the source of the data. Internal failure of the module's processor or circuit board can cause it to send corrupted data packets onto the vehicle's network, triggering U0415 in other modules.
How to confirm: After ruling out software, wiring, and sensors, the module itself becomes the prime suspect. A technician can use an advanced scan tool to monitor data packets from the ABS module for errors and check for internal module fault codes.
Typical fix: Replace the ABS control module and pump assembly. The new module must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN and configuration.
Est. part cost: $400-$800
Damaged Wiring or Corroded Connector ⚪ Low Probability Wiring to the ABS module or wheel speed sensors can be damaged by road debris, improper repairs, or corrosion from moisture. The wheel speed sensor harnesses, in particular, are exposed in the wheel wells and can rub against the tire or suspension components if not secured properly.
How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors going to the ABS module and all four wheel speed sensors for any signs of chafing, breaks, or green/white corrosion on the pins. A multimeter can be used to check for continuity and shorts to ground.
Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of wire or clean/replace the affected connector. In some cases, the entire wheel speed sensor harness may need replacement.
Est. part cost: $10-$150
Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor ⚪ Low Probability A failing wheel speed sensor can send erratic or nonsensical speed readings to the ABS module. The ABS module may then broadcast this invalid data to other modules, triggering the U0415 code elsewhere.
How to confirm: Use a scan tool to monitor the live data for each wheel speed sensor while driving. A sensor that drops out, reads 0 mph when others are reading speed, or shows a signal that jumps erratically is faulty.
Typical fix: Replace the faulty wheel speed sensor and inspect its wiring and connector for damage.
Est. part cost: $40-$120

Rare But Worth Checking

Low Battery Voltage: A weak or failing battery can cause unpredictable communication errors between various modules on the vehicle. Before diving into complex diagnostics, ensure the battery is fully charged and passes a load test. Many owners on forums report a host of random electronic issues that are resolved with a new battery.

Diagnosis Steps

Check and load test the battery first. Low voltage is a known cause of multiple, seemingly unrelated electronic faults on this platform.
Connect a professional-grade OBD-II scanner (like FORScan with an adapter or a shop-level tool) capable of reading codes from all vehicle modules (ABS, IPMB, PSCM, PCM, etc.).
Identify which module(s) have stored the U0415 code. This is the most critical step.
If the code is in the Image Processing Module B (IPMB) on a 2020-2021 model, check for symptoms like camera issues or 'Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable' messages. If present, refer to TSB SSM 49437 for a software update.
If the code is in another module (like PSCM or PCM), check for any other ABS-related 'C' codes that could point to a specific wheel speed sensor or circuit.
Using the scan tool's live data function, monitor the wheel speed readings from all four sensors while driving. Watch for any sensor that drops to zero, lags behind the others, or shows an erratic/jumpy signal.
Perform a thorough visual inspection of the wiring harness to each wheel speed sensor. Look for chafing where the harness might rub against the tire, suspension, or frame. Pay close attention to the plastic clips that secure the harness.
Inspect the main electrical connector at the ABS module (usually located on the hydraulic pump in the engine bay) for any signs of corrosion, moisture, or damaged pins. Ensure it is securely connected.
If all wiring and sensors appear to be functioning correctly, and the IPMB software TSB does not apply, the fault likely lies within the ABS control module itself.

Parts You'll Likely Need

ABS Control Module / Pump Assembly (OEM #Example: L1MC-2C219-CF, L1MZ-2005-F (Part number is VIN-specific, always verify with a dealer)) — If the module itself has failed internally, it will continuously send invalid data, making replacement the only fix. This is a common cause after software and wiring issues are ruled out.
Trusted brands: Motorcraft
OEM price range: $600-$800
Aftermarket price range: $400-$600
Wheel Speed Sensor (OEM #Varies by Front/Rear/AWD. Always verify with VIN.) — A faulty sensor can be the original source of the invalid data that the ABS module then broadcasts to other systems. They are exposed to the elements and physical damage.
Trusted brands: Motorcraft, Bosch, Dorman
OEM price range: $80-$120
Aftermarket price range: $40-$70

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

U3000:42 — This code, indicating an internal memory failure, is often stored alongside U0415 in the IPMB as part of the software glitch described in TSB SSM 49437.
C-series codes (e.g., C0035, C0020) — Codes beginning with 'C' relate to the chassis. A specific wheel speed sensor circuit fault code (like C0035 for a front left wheel speed sensor) can pinpoint the root cause of the invalid data being sent by the ABS module.
U0121:00 — This code means 'Lost Communication With ABS Control Module' and may be stored in the PSCM or other modules along with U0415, indicating a more severe network disruption.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

SSM 49437: Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may falsely store DTC U0415 in the image processing module B (IPMB), associated with camera or Reverse Brake Assist issues. The fix is to reprogram the IPMB.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

TSB SSM 49437: Ford issued this bulletin for 2020-2021 Explorer and Aviator models built on or before December 7, 2020. It notes that DTCs U0415 and/or U3000:42 can be *falsely* stored in the Image Processing Module B (IPMB). This may cause camera display problems or a 'Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable' message. The official fix is to reprogram the IPMB with updated software.
Recall 23S23 - 360-Degree Camera Failure: Separate from the TSB, a full recall was issued for 2020-2023 models for the camera system displaying a blue or black screen. While this recall primarily addresses the image loss, the underlying communication issues can be related to network faults.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

CAN Bus Resistance — expected: Approximately 60 Ohms across CAN High and CAN Low pins at the DLC with the battery disconnected.. Failure: A reading of 120 Ohms indicates a break in the circuit or a missing terminating resistor/module. A reading near 0 Ohms indicates a short between the CAN lines.
ABS Module Ground Resistance — expected: < 5 Ohms between the ground pin on the module connector and a clean chassis ground.. Failure: Resistance higher than 5 ohms indicates a poor ground connection, which can cause intermittent data errors.
ABS Module Power Supply — expected: 12V (± 0.5V) at the power supply pins on the module connector with the key on.. Failure: Voltage below 11.5V can cause modules to send corrupt data or shut down unexpectedly.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

U0415:00: The ':00' is a Failure Type Code (FTC). For this DTC, it generally means 'No Sub Type Information' or a general failure. It indicates the receiving module knows the data from the ABS module is invalid but has no more specific information about why. This is the code variant cited in the NHTSA owner complaints. (see via Professional scan tools like FORScan or Ford's FDRS will display the full DTC with the FTC.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

Ford FDRS/IDS: Programmable Module Installation (PMI) — When replacing a module like the ABS or IPMB. The PMI process downloads the 'As-Built' data from the old module (if possible), installs the new module, and then writes the vehicle-specific configuration to the new part.
Ford FDRS/IDS: Module Reprogramming — Used to update the software/firmware of an existing module. This is the specific function required to perform TSB SSM 49437, which updates the IPMB software.
Ford FDRS: 360 Degree View Camera Alignment — After replacing or reprogramming the IPMB, if the 360-degree camera view is misaligned. This procedure requires driving the vehicle slowly in a straight line in a well-marked area to calibrate the cameras.
FORScan: ABS Module Configuration (As-Built format) — Advanced users can use FORScan to manually write the As-Built data to a new or used ABS module. This is necessary if a used module is installed, as it must be programmed with the host vehicle's VIN and configuration data to function correctly.

Wiring & Ground Locations

Gateway Module (GWM) — Under the driver's side dash, on the back side of the interior fuse box.. The GWM is the central hub for network communications. A poor connection or fault at the GWM can disrupt data flow between the ABS module and other systems like the IPMB or PSCM.
AWD Module Ground — Under the driver's seat, beneath the carpet. The module grounds through its metal case to three mounting studs.. On 2020-2021 models, a common issue is a poor ground connection at this module due to paint on the grounding studs. While this primarily causes AWD warnings, a faulty module on the CAN bus can disrupt other communications, potentially contributing to or being mistaken for a U0415 fault.
Wheel Speed Sensor Harness — Runs from each wheel hub into the engine bay or along the underbody.. This harness is a common point of failure. It can be chafed by a tire or suspension component if not secured, leading to an open or shorted circuit that causes the ABS module to send invalid data.

Real Owner Repair Stories

Ford Edge Forum user 'CrackedDSM' (2015 Ford Edge Sport AWD (Similar platform architecture)) — ABS, traction control, stability control, and park aid lights all on.
❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing the right rear ABS sensor based on an initial code., Visually inspecting the harness for obvious breaks.
✅ What actually fixed it A hidden break was found in the ABS sensor wiring harness where it ran underneath the back seat, inside the car. The wire was broken but the insulation was almost intact, making it invisible until the harness was physically manipulated. Repairing the broken wire fixed all issues.
YouTube channel 'Jack of All Master of None' (2015 Ford F-150) — Multiple warnings on the dash including 'Hill Start Assist Not Available', 'Service AdvanceTrac', and ABS light. Initially only code U0415 was present.
❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial diagnosis was difficult with only the U0415 code.
✅ What actually fixed it The problem became intermittent and eventually threw additional codes for the left front wheel speed sensor. An inspection revealed the tire had been rubbing on the sensor's wiring harness, exposing copper wire. Replacing the wheel speed sensor and its harness resolved the U0415 code and all associated warnings.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

2020-2021 (built on or before Dec 7, 2020): These models are prone to a software glitch in the IPMB causing a false U0415 code, as documented in TSB SSM 49437. The fix is a software update, not a hardware replacement.
Approx. 2022 and newer: Vehicles built around or after 2022 may use a different coaxial-type wiring for the 360-degree camera system. While this doesn't directly change the meaning of U0415, it means wiring diagrams and connectors for the camera system may differ from earlier models if the IPMB is the module setting the code.

Diagnostic Flowchart

U0415 indicates 'Invalid Data Received from Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Control Module.' Start by identifying which module is reporting the code and checking for platform-specific software glitches.

Is the vehicle a 2020-2021 model built on/before Dec 7, 2020, and are you seeing 'Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable' or camera flickering?

→ This matches TSB SSM 49437. The fix is a software update for the IPMB using Ford Diagnostic & Repair System (FDRS). Check if Recall 23S23 (360-Degree Camera) also applies to your VIN.

Are there any 'C' prefix codes (like C0031, C0034) or ABS/Traction Control warning lights present?

Using a scan tool (like FORScan), monitor live data for all four wheel speed sensors. Does one sensor drop to 0 mph or show erratic values while driving?

Inspect the wiring harness for the specific wheel sensor. Is there evidence of chafing against suspension components or road debris damage?

→ Repair the wiring harness or replace the wheel speed sensor lead. Ensure the plastic clips are secured to prevent future rubbing against the tire or frame.

→ Replace the faulty Wheel Speed Sensor. If the issue persists, the tone ring inside the wheel bearing may be contaminated or damaged.

Disconnect the main electrical connector at the ABS module (on the hydraulic pump). Is there green/white corrosion or moisture inside the plug?

→ Clean the pins with electronic cleaner and apply dielectric grease. If pins are severely pitted, the ABS module or harness pigtail may require replacement.

→ The ABS Control Module is likely suffering an internal processor failure, causing it to broadcast 'invalid data' packets. Replace the ABS module and pump assembly, then program it to the vehicle VIN using FDRS.