What does code U0167 mean?
Symptoms seen in the workshop
- The engine does not start, or starts and stalls after a few seconds
- Immobilizer warning light on or flashing
- MIL on
- U0167 also stored in the cluster or BCM
Common causes of code U0167
- Engine swap with its ECU but without the immobilizer module
- Engine outside the vehicle: boat, kit car, test bench
- Faulty or unpowered immobilizer module
- Module replaced and not paired with the ECU
- Faulty key antenna or reader (depending on the architecture)
- Damaged CAN wiring or data line
Fix by ECU remapping
ECU remapping solution for engines that will run without their immobilizer module:
1. IMMO OFF (calibration): deactivation of the immobilizer in the engine ECU, so that it starts without the authorisation code.
2. DTC OFF: deactivation of U0167 and associated codes: U0140 and U0155, depending on the vehicle architecture.
If the vehicle keeps its immobilizer and it stops communicating, diagnose it instead (power supply, pairing, antenna, wiring). IMMO OFF should only be used where regulations allow it and on vehicles of verified origin.
⚠️ Important: Disabling the DTC without the correct calibration of the related system (IMMO OFF + DTC OFF) is not a valid fix. Both the calibration maps and the diagnostic mask have to be modified.
