U0416 on 2021 Chrysler 300: Causes and Fixes for Implausible ESP Data

What's Unique About the 2021-2021 Chrysler 300

For this specific generation of Chrysler 300 and its platform mates (Dodge Charger, Challenger), the manufacturer has acknowledged that a cluster of 'implausible data' communication codes, including U0416, can be triggered by a software anomaly. Unlike older vehicles where this might immediately point to a bad sensor or module, the first and most critical step for a 2021 model is to check for software updates, as outlined in Technical Service Bulletin 18-013-22.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Symptoms You May Notice

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC or ESP) warning light is on
• ABS warning light is on
• Traction control light is on
• "Service Stability System" or similar message on the instrument cluster
• Cruise control may be disabled
• In some related cases, steering can feel heavy or difficult temporarily.

Most Likely Causes

1. Control Module Software Anomaly 🔴 High Probability Manufacturer TSB #18-013-22 specifically lists U0416 among other implausible data codes, suggesting a known software issue that can be resolved with an update. This is the most common and first-to-check cause on this specific vehicle.
   How to confirm: A Chrysler dealer or a qualified shop with access to OEM software (wiTECH) must check the current software version of the PCM and other related modules against the latest available updates by referencing the vehicle's VIN.
   Typical fix: Flashing or reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the latest manufacturer software. The TSB specifies this procedure. The cost for this service at a dealer typically ranges from $100 to $200.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Failing ABS/ESP Control Module 🟡 Medium Probability The ABS/ESP module (also called the Vehicle Dynamics Control Module) is the source of the data. An internal hardware or software failure can cause it to send corrupted information onto the CAN bus.
   How to confirm: After confirming the vehicle's software is up-to-date and all wiring/power is good, a technician will use an advanced scan tool to monitor live data from the module. If the module is unresponsive, its data is erratic, or it fails internal self-tests, it is likely faulty.
   Typical fix: Replacement of the ABS/ESP control module, followed by programming it to the vehicle's VIN.
   Est. part cost: $350-$900
3. Low Battery Voltage or Poor Ground ⚪ Low Probability Modern vehicles are highly sensitive to voltage. A weak battery or a corroded/loose ground connection can cause unpredictable communication errors and data corruption between modules, leading to various 'U' codes. This can sometimes occur after a battery replacement if terminals are not secured properly.
   How to confirm: Test the battery's state of charge and health. It should read above 12.4 volts at rest. Perform a voltage drop test on the main power and ground connections to the ABS module to check for high resistance.
   Typical fix: Recharge or replace the battery. Clean, tighten, or repair ground connections. Sometimes, the code will clear on its own after a few drive cycles with a healthy battery.
   Est. part cost: $0-$250
4. CAN Bus Wiring or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability While less common on a newer vehicle, damage to the wiring harness leading to the ABS module (from road debris, rodents, or improper service) can corrupt communication signals.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness for any signs of chafing, pinching, or corrosion, especially near the ABS module connector. A multimeter can be used to check for continuity and proper resistance on the CAN high and low lines (should measure approximately 60 ohms with the battery disconnected).
   Typical fix: Repairing the damaged section of the wiring harness or cleaning/replacing the affected connector.
   Est. part cost: $10-$100

Diagnosis Steps

1. Use a professional-grade scan tool (like wiTECH for Chrysler) to confirm the presence of U0416 and check for any other codes stored in all vehicle modules.
2. Check for any applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle's VIN. TSB #18-013-22 is the primary lead for this code on a 2021 model.
3. If a software-related TSB exists, have the relevant modules (specifically the PCM as per TSB 18-013-22) updated by a dealer or qualified shop. This is the most probable fix.
4. If the software flash does not resolve the issue, verify battery voltage is stable and above 12.4V. Test the charging system and perform voltage drop tests on the ABS module's power and ground circuits.
5. Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors to the ABS/ESP module for any visible damage, corrosion, or looseness.
6. With the ignition off and battery disconnected, measure the resistance between the CAN High and CAN Low pins at the DLC or ABS module connector. A reading of approximately 60 ohms indicates a healthy bus; 🎬 See this tech tip for performing CAN bus diagnostics. 120 ohms may indicate a problem with a terminating resistor or module.
7. Using an advanced scan tool, monitor the live data stream from the ABS/ESP module to check for erratic outputs or communication dropouts.
8. If all other steps fail to identify the issue, the ABS/ESP module is the most likely culprit and should be tested for replacement.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• ABS/ESP Control Module (OEM #68399772AG (supercedes older numbers, verify by VIN)) — If a software update does not resolve the code, the module itself is the most likely hardware failure causing the invalid data signal. This part is often sold as an assembly with the hydraulic pump.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $450-$700
  Aftermarket price range: $350-$600

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U0402 — Implausible Data Received From TCM. Often included in the same software-related TSB #18-013-22.
• U0418 — Implausible Data Received From Brake System Control Module. Also related to the ABS/ESP system and listed in TSB #18-013-22.
• U0429 — Implausible Data Received From Steering Column Control Module. This can be related as steering angle is a key input for the ESP system.
• U0121 — Lost Communication With Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Control Module. This is a more severe communication code indicating a complete loss of signal, whereas U0416 indicates the signal is present but nonsensical.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-013-22: (Chrysler TSB Number) Published Jan 20, 2022. Addresses multiple 'Implausible Data' codes including U0416 by reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with updated software. This applies to 2021 Chrysler 300 models with the 3.6L engine built on or before October 14, 2021.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A known software issue documented in TSB #18-013-22 can cause this code, along with several other 'U' codes, to be set erroneously. The fix is a PCM software update.
• Low battery voltage is a common trigger for various electronic faults on these vehicles, including ABS/ESP communication errors.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• CAN Bus Network Resistance — expected: ~60 Ω. Failure: A reading of ~120 Ω indicates a missing terminating resistor or an open circuit in the harness. A reading near 0 Ω indicates a short between the CAN High and CAN Low wires.
• CAN High Voltage to Ground — expected: ~2.5V (recessive/idle), ~3.5V (dominant/transmitting). Failure: Significant deviation from these voltages indicates a bus problem, short, or faulty module.
• CAN Low Voltage to Ground — expected: ~2.5V (recessive/idle), ~1.5V (dominant/transmitting). Failure: Significant deviation from these voltages indicates a bus problem, short, or faulty module.
• ABS Module Power Supply — expected: 11.5V - 12.5V. Failure: Voltage dropping below 11.5V, especially when the system is activated, points to a power supply or ground issue.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH: ABS Initialization — This function must be run after replacing the ABS module to calibrate it to the vehicle. It may also be required after certain software flashes.
• wiTECH: Reprogram ABS Module — Used to flash the ABS module with updated software, which can resolve various performance issues or enable/disable features as per TSBs.
• wiTECH: Clear All DTCs — After a module has been reprogrammed, the wiTECH application will present all resulting DTCs and allow the technician to clear them from all modules.
• wiTECH: Restore Vehicle Configuration — When installing a used ABS module, this function can sometimes be used to write the vehicle's VIN and configuration data to the replacement module, resolving mismatch errors.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• ABS/ESP Control Module — Located in the engine bay, attached to the hydraulic control unit, typically on the driver's side.. This is the source of the 'implausible data'. The module itself, its power/ground connections, and its CAN bus connector are the primary physical locations to inspect.
• CAN-C Bus — This is the critical powertrain and chassis communication network. On Chrysler vehicles, it is not directly accessible at the DLC pins 6 and 14; the TIPM (fuse box) acts as a gateway. Testing must be done at a module on the network, like the ABS connector.. A fault anywhere on this bus can corrupt data from the ABS module. Technicians may need to unplug modules one by one to isolate the source of a network-wide short or data collision.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68399772AA, 68399772AB, 68399772AC, 68399772AD, 68399772AE, 68399772AF → 68399772AG — Progressive updates for hardware revisions and reliability improvements.
  Heads up: Using an older part number when a newer one is specified is not recommended. Always verify the correct part number for the vehicle's specific VIN and options, as programming is required.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2021 (build date on or before October 14, 2021): Vehicles built on or before this date with the 3.6L engine are specifically called out in TSB #18-013-22 as potentially having the software anomaly that causes code U0416. The primary fix is a PCM software update. Vehicles built after this date should already have the updated software from the factory.