P0606 Engine Control Module/Powertrain Control Module Processor Fault
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Last Updated 2016-11-08
ASE Master Tech
| Code | Fault Location | Probable Cause |
|---|---|---|
| P0606 | Engine control module (ECM)/powertrain control module (PCM) -processor fault (Buy Part On Amazon) | ECM/PCM |
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What Does Code P0606 Mean?
I have found that when a code P0606 is stored, it means that the engine control module (ECM)/powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a processor malfunction. Other control modules, including the transmission control module (TCM), body control module (BCM), antilock brake system (ABSCM) module, the traction control system (TCSCM) module, the instrument panel control module (IPCM), the anti theft module (ATM), and many others, may also detect a problem with the processor and cause a code P0606 to be stored.
OBD II equipped vehicles typically refer to the primary powertrain controller as the PCM. The primary focus of the PCM is to control operation of the engine and transmission but it also controls various functions of the other electronic systems listed above. That is not to say that these systems will not also have their own dedicated controller and it is very likely that they will. Information (data) is shared between these controllers using a large and complex web of wiring known as the controller area network (CAN).
When the ignition switch is turned on, before the engine is even started, the PCM begins a series of self tests to determine whether or not it is functioning properly.
If the PCM detects a voltage supply malfunction, a system ground deficiency, or an internal processor error, a code P0606 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated. Depending upon the perceived severity of the malfunction, multiple ignition cycles (with a malfunction) may be necessary for MIL illumination.
What are the common causes of code P0606 ?
- Blown ECM/PCM fuse
- Bad ECM/PCM power supply relay
- A defective ECM/PCM
- Open or shorted wiring or connectors in the CAN harness
- Insecure control module ground strap or broken ground wire
What are the symptoms of code P0606 ?
- Multiple and varied engine drivability issues
- Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- Diminished fuel economy
- The engine could stall or run roughly (especially at idle)
- Hesitation upon acceleration
- Other (ABS, TCS, IPC, BCM, or TCM) issues may be exhibited
- ABS, TCS, IPC, BCM, or TCM codes may also be stored
How do you troubleshoot code P0606 ?
Diagnosing a code P0606 can propose quite a challenge, even to the most experienced and well equipped technician. Nevertheless, there are a few preliminary tests that can be performed before throwing your hands in the air and declaring the PCM (or ECM) defective.
For this you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a vehicle information source like All Data (DIY).
Begin with a visual inspection of any visible wiring and harnesses related to the vehicle controllers (some vehicles may have as many as eighteen). Locate and check chassis and engine ground junctions and use the DVOM to make sure that they are clean and secure. Gain access to the ECM/PCM and inspect it for signs of water, heat, or collision damage. If the PCM is damaged, especially by water, assume that it will need to be replaced.
Next, you will want to test ECM/PCM power supply fuses and relays. Test and replace blown fuses, keeping in mind that blown fuses are caused by shorted circuits or shorted components. Consult the vehicle information source for relay connector face views and test them as recommended. If there is an ECM/PCM power supply code present, you will want to diagnose and repair it before attempting to diagnose a P0606.
If power and grounds for the ECM/PCM are intact, suspect a defective ECM/PCM. ECM/PCM (or any other controller) replacement will usually require vehicle match programming. This can be done through your local dealership or you can opt to purchase a pre-programmed controller. You will need to provide the parts supplier with the service number from the original controller, the vehicle identification number, and the mileage of the vehicle, among other things. IF a pre-programmed ECM/PCM is available for your vehicle the parts supplier will advise you of the exact information required.
Codes Related to P0606
- P0600 Serial Communication Link Malfunction
- P0601 Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error
- P0602 Control Module Programming Error
- P0603 Internal Control Module Keep Alive Memory (KAM) Error
- P0604 Internal Control Module Random Access Memory (RAM) Error
- P0605 Internal Control Module Read Only Memory (ROM) Error
- P0607 Control Module Performance
- P0685 ECM/PCM Power Relay Control Circuit Open
- P0686 ECM/PCM Power Relay Control Circuit Low
- P0687 ECM/PCM Power Relay Control Circuit High
- P0688 ECM/PCM Power Relay Sense Circuit Open
- P0689 ECM/PCM Power Relay Sense Circuit Low
- P068A ECM/PCM Power Relay De-Energized Performance – Too Early
- P068B ECM/PCM Power Relay De-Energized Performance – Too Late
this code p0606 and u0101 displayed at the same time when driving,epc light on aswell, lost throttle response and had to drift car to shoulder, turned off car and restarted and codes cleared, could this be a bad tcu?
Joe. To me this seems like a bad transmission computer. The t.p sensor is an input to the TCM, so losing response to the sensor would make sense.
Descendo uma rua trepidando nos remendos da rua.ja duas vezes deu essa falha mas foi corrigida.o que pode ter cido?
O meu gol ja detectou esse código duas vezes. Sempre q eu estou descendo uma rua trepidando ou seja tuas com bastante remendo a 40 por hora aparece esse código
hey guys i need some help im trying to figure out whats going on with my car, i was driving and the engine started miss firing, i cut it off then turned it back on and it started to run fine, the next morning it did it again but not for long, i hooked a ob2 scanner to the car and it has ecm/pcm processor code p0606 and misfire in cylinder 4 in the engine. i also need help locating the ecm im thinking its the computer on top of the engine thanks
Good day, Gentle Men, please my Toyota corolla car is having jerking and not speeding well accelerated. Kindly give possible faults and idea to repair.
With the problems you’re describing and the DTC, my first guess would be an ECM problem. Check with the dealer for any service bulletins referencing your YMM and DTC. Before you just replace the ECM, though, check all power and ground circuits for breaks or corrosion, like fuses, relays, ground bolts, broken ground wires, corrosion at the battery terminal. Voltage problems can wreak havoc on computers.
Hi, I got the error code “P0606 Internal fault intermittent ” on my 207 Peugeot 2011.
Any help please?
OK, so this is really weird, but some quick research indicates that it’s not necessarily a problem with the engine controller. Of course, I would do a thorough check of the controller’s power supply circuits, relays, fuses, and grounds. Any corrosion, loose connections, or high resistance could set this code. On the other hand, it seems like some scan tools might not detect this fault correctly, as I see repeated mention of EPS motor failure, DTC C1414. You may need to see a Peugeot specialist to sort this one out.
Hi , I got 2 codes in my 207 Peugeot 2011
P0606 internal fault
Intermittent
C1415 power consumption of steering motor is too Hight
Intermitement
Any help ?
my car citroen evasion, was leak transmission oil i later block the leakage but after i digonise it was showing ecm/pcm processor and p0606 pls kindly put me through the meaning
I got this code on 2015 forster 2.5 turbo drict injection after jump starting engine battery went dead in 1 hour 15 min new battery and it tests good this thing has been to dealer over 30 times for code issues
Ken-
I understand your pain. Usually, I would suspect a problem with the ECM with this DTC, but your voltage problems are concerning me. It seems that you have to start with getting the electrical system straightened out first. On the other hand, such a young vehicle with so many problems should have been sent back to Subaru by now. You have all your repair orders and have you called Subaru corporate?
-Ben