U0418: Invalid Data Received From Brake System Control Module A
A generic network and communication trouble code, same meaning on every brand.
Yes, carefully - base brakes almost always keep working. But if the pedal feels different in any way, stop: that is no longer a data problem.
Symptoms
- ABS and brake warning lights
- Stability and traction control disabled
- Speedometer glitches on some cars
- Pedal feel normal in the data-only case
Likely causes, most common first
- ABS module sending data other modules reject
- Wheel speed sensor fault corrupting its outputs
- Poor power or ground at the ABS module
- CAN wiring fault on the brake branch
Read U0418 yourself before paying for diagnosis
A basic Bluetooth OBD-II scanner ($20-40) plugs into the port under the dashboard and shows this code with live sensor data on your phone - useful both for confirming the fix and for talking to a shop from an informed position.
What is going on and how it gets diagnosed
U0418 records that the brake system control module - the ABS unit - broadcast data its neighbors refused to believe. The car's response is defensive: ABS, stability and traction control stand down, warning lights come on, and the hydraulic brakes carry on as a plain, pre-electronic system.
The root cause frequently is not the module at all. The ABS unit's most-shared products are wheel speeds, and one corroded wheel sensor feeding it garbage can make its entire output stream implausible - so the module's own stored codes and a live view of all four wheel speeds are the first stop. Power and ground come next, for the usual high-current reasons. The module itself is last, and worth pricing at an ABS rebuild specialist before a dealer, because the difference is routinely several hundred dollars.
Repair options and cost
Typical US independent-shop ranges, parts and labor. Dealers run higher; regional labor rates vary.
Owner reports mentioning U0418
“Due to braking system electronic failure vehicle automatically disables safety features such as ABS, parking collision sensors disabled, traction control, and vehicle will automatically and abruptly go into P (park) when coming to a stop while braking. This can be caused by wheel speed sensors, brake control module, or communication failure to PCM. Engine codes U0418, U0415, and U1003 linked to problem. This is a big safety hazard where vehicle damage or injury/death can occur to occupants of the vehicle. Safety features should never become disabled in a vehicle while in operation.”2022 Jeep Wagoneer · Jul 2026
“Normal speed of 25mph on a clear warm day with no road obstructions when the BRAKE System Indicator (Red) illuminated. I pressed on the brake and had severe resistance and was barely able to stop the car. Two more indicators illuminated. One I believe was the Vehicle Stability Assist and the other I don't recall. The screen flashed "Call your Dealer". The Owners Manual states "Have your vehicle repaired immediately." The vehicle was hauled to Southeast Honda. Codes UO416-680416-F8, U0418-68, U3000-49I. The Brake Booster was replaced. I am concerned that an in-experienced driver traveling at interstate speeds might have a fatal issue.”2025 Honda Odyssey · Jul 2025
“Driving the car the engine light and traction light would come on and the steering wheel would lock in position, moving straight or turning. Happened several times between servicing. Several codes came up and were addressed but did not fix the problem. Codes were u0131, u0418, u0131-87, u0415 and u0428. No issue until car was serviced for the latest recall. Car with dealer. Say it's a complete electrical system repair. Not once have I had an issue with my car in 4yrs until dealer serviced it for steering wheel recall.”2014 Jeep Cherokee · Nov 2020 · 86,000 mi
Show 4 more owner reports
“ABS light came on and brake system failed to stop the vehicle until pressed hard the brake pedal. The ABS light comes on and off. Gave the vehicle for diagnostics to mechanic - codes u0418 invalid data from brake control module, codes c1478, c1479, c1480, wheel brake pressure control plausibility, u2023 communication network fault, mechanic gave estimate of $5542.00 to replace ABS control assembly. I called ford customer service, they declined to assist at this time. No help provided to put my vehicle back on road. This is a safety issue.”2008 Mercury Mariner · Dec 2018 · 122,000 mi
“ABS light came on and brake system failed to stop the vehicle until pressed hard the brake pedal. The ABS light comes on and off. Gave the vehicle for diagnostics to mechanic - codes u0418 invalid data from brake control module, codes c1478, c1479, c1480, wheel brake pressure control plausibility, u2023 communication network fault, mechanic gave estimate of $5542.00 to replace ABS control assembly. I called ford customer service, they declined to assist at this time. No help provided to put my vehicle back on road. This is a safety issue.”2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid · Dec 2018 · 122,000 mi
“The brakes are hard, runs all the way to stop this hard .el wheel can not turn easily to the sides. It gives me the code u0418, u0413. Is is not due to wear is a manufacturer fails”2005 Ford Escape Hybrid · Jun 2016 · 40 mi
“The brakes are hard, runs all the way to stop this hard .el wheel can not turn easily to the sides. It gives me the code u0418, u0413. Is is not due to wear is a manufacturer fails”2005 Ford Escape · Jun 2016 · 40 mi
Cars that report U0418 most often
Based on mentions of this code in NHTSA owner complaints.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with U0418?
Yes, carefully - base brakes almost always keep working. But if the pedal feels different in any way, stop: that is no longer a data problem.
How much does it cost to fix U0418?
Typical US repair costs range from $60 for the simplest fix (wheel speed sensor replacement) to $1,200 in the worst case. The right number depends on which cause your car has - see the causes list.
Related codes
The codes closest to U0418. They often appear together, and telling them apart is usually what narrows the diagnosis.
Definition per SAE J2012 standard nomenclature. Symptoms, causes and costs are editorial guidance - always confirm with a diagnosis of your specific vehicle.