U1153 on 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Lost Communication With Wiper Module Fixes

What's Unique About the 2021-2021 Jeep GRAND CHEROKEE

On this generation of Jeep Grand Cherokee, particularly the 2021+ 'WL' models, electronic modules are highly interconnected via CAN and LIN bus networks. A communication fault with one module, like the wiper module, is often not an isolated event. Jeep has identified that software anomalies in the Body Control Module (BCM) can cause numerous communication codes, including U1153, to appear simultaneously. As a result, the fix is often a software update (flash) for the BCM rather than a direct repair of the wiper system itself, a solution documented in official service bulletins.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Generation note: The 2021 model year is an overlap year. It includes the end of the fourth generation (WK2) and the beginning of the fifth generation (WL), which started with the Grand Cherokee L. TSB 08-050-22 REV B, the primary fix for this code, explicitly applies to the 2021 (WL) Jeep Grand Cherokee. While the underlying cause could be similar on a WK2, this specific software fix is for the newer WL platform. Owners of WK2 models may need to follow a more traditional diagnostic path (wiring, module, BCM hardware).

Symptoms You May Notice

• Windshield wipers do not work at all
• Windshield wipers are stuck in one position (e.g., mid-swipe)
• Wipers operate erratically or only on one speed (high or low)
• Intermittent wiper settings do not work
• Washer fluid function is inoperative
• A general warning light or 'Check Engine' light may be present on the instrument cluster
• Multiple other communication codes are stored along with U1153

Most Likely Causes

1. Body Control Module (BCM) Software Glitch 🔴 High Probability Jeep issued Technical Service Bulletin 08-050-22 REV B, which directly links U1153 and a long list of other communication codes to a software issue within the BCM on 2021 (WL) models. This is the most common and well-documented cause.
   How to confirm: A Jeep dealership or a qualified shop with a wiTECH scan tool can check the current BCM software version against the latest available version specified in the TSB. The TSB applies to vehicles built on or before September 27, 2021.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming (flashing) the BCM with the latest software version. This is a dealer-level repair that requires a battery charger to maintain stable voltage during the procedure.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Faulty Windshield Wiper Smart Module 🟡 Medium Probability Like any electronic component, the module itself can fail internally due to heat, vibration, or component age, causing it to stop communicating on the network. This is more likely if U1153 is the only code present and the BCM software is up to date.
   How to confirm: After confirming the BCM software is current and inspecting the wiring, a technician would use a scan tool to attempt direct communication with the wiper module. If it fails to respond despite having good power and ground, the module is condemned.
   Typical fix: Replacement of the windshield wiper smart module, which is integrated into the wiper motor assembly.
   Est. part cost: $150-$300
3. Wiring Harness or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability Wiring in the engine bay is exposed to heat and vibration. A wire can chafe against a bracket, or a connector pin can become loose or corroded, breaking the LIN bus connection between the BCM and the wiper module.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the wiper motor/module. Check for continuity and for shorts to power or ground on the communication (LIN bus) wire between the BCM and the wiper module using a multimeter and wiring diagram.
   Typical fix: Repairing the damaged section of wire or cleaning/replacing the faulty connector.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Body Control Module (BCM): If a software flash doesn't resolve the issue and the wiper module/wiring are confirmed to be good, the BCM itself may have a hardware failure. This is rare and expensive, often costing over $500 for the part and several hours of labor for installation and programming. It should be the last consideration.
• Poor Ground Connection: A loose or corroded main chassis ground or BCM ground can cause unpredictable electrical issues and communication faults across multiple modules. Low battery voltage from a failing battery can also cause a flood of communication codes.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Connect a high-level scan tool (like wiTECH) and check for U1153 and any other communication codes. Document all codes present.
2. Check for applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) or Rapid Service Updates (RSUs). Specifically, search for TSB 08-050-22 REV B for 2021 (WL) models.
3. If TSB 08-050-22 REV B applies and the BCM software is outdated, perform the BCM reprogramming procedure. This is the most likely fix and should be done first. A stable power supply (battery charger) is required during the flash.
4. If the software is already up-to-date or the flash does not fix the issue, check the vehicle's battery voltage and main ground connections. Ensure the battery is healthy and connections are clean and tight. Low voltage can cause numerous communication errors.
5. Inspect the wiring harness and electrical connector at the windshield wiper smart module/motor for any signs of physical damage, corrosion, or moisture intrusion.
6. Using a wiring diagram, verify that the wiper module is receiving proper power and ground at its connector.
7. Test the LIN bus communication wire between the BCM and the wiper module for continuity and to ensure it is not shorted to power or ground.
8. If wiring, power, and ground are all good, and the BCM software is current, the windshield wiper smart module is the most likely failed component and should be replaced.
9. If the problem persists after replacing the wiper module, a hardware fault in the Body Control Module (BCM) is possible, though rare.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Windshield Wiper Motor and Linkage Assembly (OEM #68505537AA) — The 'smart module' is integrated into the wiper motor assembly. If the module fails electronically, the entire unit must be replaced. This part number is listed for the 2021-2024 Grand Cherokee (WL).
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $250-$350
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$250

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U1207-00 — Lost Communication With Terrain Switch Bank Module. Both are listed in the same TSB 08-050-22 REV B as being caused by a BCM software issue.
• U1191-00 — Lost Communication with Switch Bank Module 2. Also part of the same BCM software-related TSB.
• U114F-00 — Lost Communication with LIN Overhead Console. Another code mentioned in the same TSB, indicating a widespread LIN bus communication problem originating from the BCM.
• U0231-00 — Lost Communication With Rain Sensing Module. This module works in conjunction with the wiper system, and a communication fault here is often related and also listed in TSB 08-050-22 REV B.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 08-050-22 REV B (also RSU 22-198): Specifically for the 2021 (WL) Grand Cherokee, this TSB addresses U1153 and over a dozen other LIN-related communication DTCs by reprogramming the Body Control Module (BCM) with updated software. It notes the issue applies to vehicles built on or before September 27, 2021.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A known software issue in the Body Control Module (BCM) is the primary documented cause for this code on the 2021 WL generation, addressed by TSB 08-050-22 REV B. This bulletin involves reprogramming the BCM to resolve a host of communication DTCs, including U1153.
• A Reddit user with a 2019 Grand Cherokee experienced total wiper failure and, after replacing the fuse and motor with no success, found the ultimate cause to be a failed BCM, which was an $800 repair. This highlights that while software is the common fix, BCM hardware failure is a possible, albeit more expensive, outcome.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• LIN Bus Voltage (at rest, slave module disconnected) — expected: 7 to 12 Volts (Reference voltage from master module). Failure: 0V may indicate an open or short to ground in the LIN wire. Full battery voltage may indicate a short to power.
• LIN Bus Voltage (active communication) — expected: Toggling between approx. 1V (dominant) and up to 12V (recessive). Failure: A steady voltage indicates no communication. A voltage stuck low suggests a short to ground or a faulty module pulling the bus down.
• Wiper Motor Ground Circuit Resistance — expected: Less than 2.0 ohms. Failure: Resistance higher than 2.0 ohms indicates a poor ground connection, which can cause module communication issues.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• U1153-00: The '-00' is a Failure Type Code indicating 'No Sub Type Information'. This is the standard presentation for this DTC and implies a general communication loss rather than a specific circuit fault (like short-to-ground or open circuit, which would have different suffixes). (see via A professional scan tool like wiTECH will display the code with its failure type.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH 2.0: Actuators Test / Bidirectional Controls — After checking for TSBs, a technician can use the wiTECH tool to directly command the wiper motor to activate (low speed, high speed, park). If the motor responds to the direct command from the BCM, it confirms the motor/module itself is functional and the problem lies in the normal communication path (e.g., multifunction switch input to BCM, or a software logic issue).
• wiTECH 2.0: View Topology — The vehicle topology map provides a quick visual overview of all modules on the network. It will color-code modules that are not communicating (like the Wiper Smart Module), immediately focusing diagnostics. This is especially useful when multiple 'U' codes are present, as it can help identify a pattern pointing to a single faulty bus or master module.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Body Control Module (BCM) — Located at the base of the driver's side (left) A-pillar, in the driver's footwell area.. The BCM is the master module for the LIN bus that the Windshield Wiper Smart Module communicates on. All diagnostic tests of the LIN circuit will originate or terminate at this module's connectors.
• Wiper Motor Ground (Reference from WJ) — On the similar WJ platform, the wiper motor ground (part of G106) is located on the driver's side inner fender, behind the airbox. This is a probable location to check for the WL model.. A poor or corroded ground connection for the wiper motor/module can prevent it from powering on and communicating, directly causing a U1153 code even if all other wiring is intact.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user in r/GrandCherokee (2022 Grand Cherokee WL) — Windshield washer fluid would not spray, though wipers worked.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Checking fuses., Listening for pump activation.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The dealership diagnosed and replaced a failed washer pump motor under warranty.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68505537AA → No supersession found. — This is the current part number for the wiper motor assembly for the 2021-2026 WL platform.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2021 (WL): TSB 08-050-22 REV B, which addresses the common software cause for U1153, applies specifically to 2021 (WL) models built on or before September 27, 2021. Vehicles built after this date should have the updated BCM software from the factory.