John Deere 2149.09 – RLC (Roof Load Center / Cab Roof Module): Incorrect CAN Bus Message, Information from VLC Control Software

A data transfer problem occurs between the VLC (Vehicle Load Center) control software and the RLC (Roof Load Center) control software. The reception of one, several, or all of the CAN messages transmitted by the VLC to the RLC is intermittent or non-existent, often caused by a loose wire, damaged harness, or software mismatch.

• 6110R
• 6120R
• 6130R
• 6145R
• 6155R
• 6175R
• 6195R
• 6215R
• 6R Series
• 7R Series
• 7M Series
• 7210R
• 7230R
• 7M200
• 7M215
• 8R Series
• 8RT Series
• 8RW Series
• 8245R
• 8400R
• 9RT Series
• 9RX Series
• 9470RT
• 9520RT
• 9570RT
• 9RX 590

1. 1

   Inspect CAN Bus Connections: Check all CAN bus connectors between the VLC and the RLC for signs of physical damage, loose pins, or corrosion.

2. 2

   Verify Wiring Integrity: Inspect the wiring harness routing between the cab roof and the rear chassis for any signs of chafing, wear, damage, or corrosion.

3. 3

   Check for Software Updates: Verify the software versions on both the VLC and RLC modules. A software mismatch or outdated firmware can cause CAN message processing errors.

4. 4

   Check for Accompanying Codes: Look for other CAN bus voltage or communication codes (e.g., codes indicating low voltage to the RLC) which might point to a power supply issue rather than a data line issue.

1. 1

   Disconnect Power

   Turn off the machine and disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts during inspection.

2. 2

   Access the Modules

   Locate the RLC (typically in the cab roof/headliner area) and the VLC (typically located in the rear chassis/fender area).

3. 3

   Clean and Reseat Connectors

   Disconnect the CAN bus harness at both modules. Clean the pins with electrical contact cleaner, apply dielectric grease, and firmly reseat the connectors.

4. 4

   Repair Harness (If Applicable)

   If continuity testing reveals an open or shorted wire in the CAN High or CAN Low lines, repair the broken wire using OEM-approved splice connectors and heat shrink, or replace the affected harness section.

5. 5

   Flash/Update Software

   Reconnect the battery. Using John Deere Service ADVISOR, flash both the VLC and RLC to the latest software versions.

6. 6

   Clear Codes and Test

   Clear the 002149.09 code and cycle the key. Operate the tractor's lighting and cab functions to verify that the VLC and RLC are communicating properly and the code does not return.

7. 7

   Module Replacement (Last Resort)

   If wiring is perfectly intact and software is updated but the code persists, the CAN transceiver inside the RLC or VLC may have failed, requiring module replacement.