What is Hitachi ZX890H-5A Fault Code 20113-2?

Fault Code 20113-2 on the Hitachi ZX890H-5A excavator indicates a malfunction in the Engine Control Module (ECM) communication circuit, specifically a CAN Bus (Controller Area Network) communication error between the engine ECM and the machine's main controller. This code triggers when the ECM detects an abnormal signal or loss of data transmission on the CAN Bus network, which is the critical communication backbone connecting all electronic control systems on this ultra-class excavator.

This fault is particularly serious on the ZX890H-5A because the CAN Bus manages real-time data exchange between the engine management system, hydraulic controllers, and monitoring displays. When communication fails, the machine cannot properly coordinate engine output with hydraulic demand, potentially causing performance limitations or complete shutdown to prevent damage. On used excavators, this code often appears due to age-related wiring degradation rather than actual ECM failure.

Common Symptoms

• Warning lights illuminate on the main display panel, typically showing engine and system error indicators simultaneously
• Engine derate mode engages, limiting power output to 50-70% of normal capacity to protect the drivetrain
• Intermittent loss of dashboard readings, including engine RPM, coolant temperature, or hydraulic oil temperature gauges
• Erratic hydraulic response during combined operations due to disrupted communication between engine load sensing and pump control
• Machine may enter limp mode or refuse to start if the communication failure is persistent

Potential Causes

The most common technical causes for Code 20113-2 on used ZX890H-5A excavators include:

• Corroded or loose CAN Bus connectors at the ECM harness connection points (C101 and C102 connectors behind the operator cab)
• Damaged wiring harness along known rub points near the engine mounting brackets and swing bearing cable routing
• Failed termination resistors on the CAN Bus network (120-ohm resistors at network endpoints)
• ECM power supply issues caused by corroded main battery cables or failing alternator voltage regulation
• Water intrusion into the main wiring harness conduit running from the engine compartment to the cab area
• Faulty ECM ground connections (G301 ground point commonly affected by corrosion on high-hour machines)

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Code 20113-2

Step 1: Visual Inspection and Connector Check Begin by inspecting all CAN Bus harness connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture. On used excavators, focus on the C101 and C102 ECM connectors and the main cab harness junction near the swing bearing. Disconnect each connector, spray with electrical contact cleaner, and inspect for green corrosion. Check for physical damage to wiring insulation along the engine-to-cab harness routing path.

Step 2: Test CAN Bus Continuity and Resistance Using a digital multimeter, disconnect the battery and measure resistance between CAN-High and CAN-Low terminals at the ECM connector. You should read approximately 60 ohms (two 120-ohm termination resistors in parallel). A reading of 120 ohms indicates one failed termination resistor; infinite resistance suggests an open circuit. Check continuity from the ECM through to the main controller—any breaks indicate harness damage requiring repair or replacement.

Step 3: Verify ECM Power and Ground Circuits Reconnect the battery and measure voltage at ECM pin 1 (battery positive) with ignition on—should read 24V ±1V. Check ground circuit resistance from ECM pin 2 to battery negative terminal; resistance should be less than 0.5 ohms. Clean and tighten the G301 ground point located on the engine block near the starter motor. For used machines, remove the ground bolt completely, wire-brush both surfaces, and apply dielectric grease before reinstallation.

Step 4: Diagnostic Software Testing Connect Hitachi Dr.EX diagnostic software via the service port under the operator seat. Monitor live CAN Bus data while operating the machine. Look for intermittent signal dropouts or error counters incrementing. The software can identify which specific controller is losing communication. On high-hour used excavators, intermittent codes often point to harness flex fatigue rather than ECM failure.

Step 5: Address Common Used Equipment Issues Before replacing expensive components, inspect harness routing for areas where vibration causes wire chafing. Common failure points include where the harness passes through the cab mounting plate and near the hydraulic pump. Secure any loose wiring with proper clamps and add protective sleeving. Replace any termination resistors showing incorrect values—these are inexpensive components that frequently fail on older machines.

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general troubleshooting information for experienced technicians. Always consult the official Hitachi service manual for your specific machine serial number and follow proper lockout/tagout procedures. For complex electrical diagnostics on used excavators, professional evaluation with OEM diagnostic tools is recommended to prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary parts replacement.