P0657 – Actuator supply voltage -circuit open

By Reinier (Contact Me)
Last Updated 2016-08-22
Automobile Repair Shop Owner

Table of Contents

1. What Does Code P0657 Mean?
2. What are the common causes of code P0657 ?
3. What are the symptoms of code P0657 ?
4. How do you troubleshoot code P0657 ?
5. Codes Related to P0657
6. Get Help with P0657

What Does Code P0657 Mean?

OBD II fault code P0657 is most commonly defined as “Actuator Supply Voltage “A” Circuit/Open” and is set when either the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) or any other control module detects a break in communication between two or more control modules. Circuit “A” refers to a part of the CAN (Controller Area Network) circuit, rather than a specific circuit, wire, or component. Note that the term “Circuit A” is not always included in the various definitions of this code, but where it is included, “Circuit “A” could mean different things on different applications. Always consult the manual for the application being worked on for detailed information on the exact meaning and correct interpretation of the definition.

SPECIAL NOTES:

The Controller Area Network on any vehicle is a highly complex conglomeration of wiring harnesses, sensors, and other components that link most control modules to each other on the one hand, and all of the control modules to PCM on the other. The system can be thought of as a sort of miniature intranet, where all of the control modules are in constant communication with each other, and where the PCM acts as a sort of “clearing house” or “sorting station” for the several thousand signals, pulses, and messages being passed every second between the various control modules that control every aspect of a vehicle’s operation.

Regardless of the exact meaning of a definition assigned to code P0657, no control module can function in isolation. All control modules are inter-connected via the CAN bus system, which in practice means that a loss of communication between a particular control module and the components/systems it controls directly affects other control modules and/or systems. Note though that while it is sometimes possible to repair the loss of communication between some controllers without dissecting the entire CAN bus system, this is not always possible.

END OF SPECIAL NOTES.

The actual number of control modules varies between applications, with some applications having as many as 18, or sometimes more. Typical control modules that are linked by the CAN system include the following, but are not necessarily limited to the-

• alternative fuel control module
• body control module
• antilock brake control module
• instrument panel control module
• fuel injection control module
• boost pressure control module
• anti-theft/security/alarm module
• cruise control module
• traction control module
• stability control module
• proximity alert module
• climate control module

In practice, a signal from a particular sensor is often shared between multiple controllers. For instance, a signal from the vehicle speed sensor is sent to the-

• PCM to manage engine functions,
• to the cruise control module to maintain that speed,
• to the ABS system via the wheel speed sensors to arm the brakes, traction -, and stability control systems,
• and to other affected controllers, such as the proximity alert control module to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Although this example is a gross over-simplification of the CAN system, it should suffice to illustrate the complexity of the system. However, to complicate matters further, each control module is programmed with a set of messages it expects to receive from other control modules. Thus, when a particular control module does not receive an expected signal, or when a particular control module detects a break in communication from one or more of the control modules it should be in contact with, a code is set, and in some cases a warning light will be illuminated. Note that some failures will set a code immediately, while others require several fault cycles before setting a code and illuminating a warning light.

The image below shows a hugely simplified representation of the major components and systems that are interconnected by the CAN bus system. Note that systems such as power window control and others that are typically controlled by the BCM (Body Control Module), are not shown here.

What are the common causes of code P0657 ?

The most common causes of code P0657 are wiring issues that could include burnt, damaged, shorted, or corroded wiring and /or connectors that cause open circuits. Other possible causes could include-

• Voltage spikes that damage electronic circuitry
• Low battery or system voltages that can also damage delicate circuitry
• Water ingress into control modules and wiring harnesses
• Failed, or defective sensors, but note that where sensors have failed codes that are related to that sensor or system are likely to be present
• PCM or other control module failure. Note that this is a relatively rare event, and all other repair options must be explored before any control module is replaced.

What are the symptoms of code P0657 ?

In many cases, the only symptom is a pending code, although on applications that set a code on the first failure cycle, the code will be active, and accompanied by an illuminated warning light.

NOTE: Other symptoms are for the most part make-and-model specific, with the actual symptoms depending on where in the CAN system the fault had occurred. Be aware though that code P0657 indicates a communication failure in the CAN system specifically, meaning that driveability issues and other symptoms are rather the result of the code than the cause of it. Therefore, attempts to resolve the symptoms will not resolve this code.

How do you troubleshoot code P0657 ?

WARNING: Diagnosing OBD II code P0657 is NOT recommended for non-professional mechanics, because CAN bus systems consist of thousands of circuits, connections, and connector pins that connect a dozen or more control modules. In addition, the system relies on inputs from a host of sensors that are in their turn, connected to the PCM via the CAN bus system with several hundred more circuits. Finding an open circuit in this system is a monumental task that requires a full inspection of the ENTIRE wiring harness, and the individual testing of the above-mentioned thousands of circuits.

NOTE #1: The exact definition of P0657 and the application of that definition must be researched before attempting a diagnosis of the code. Always consult the manual for the application being worked on for detailed information on code P0657 as it applies to that particular application.

NOTE #2: Generic code readers are generally not capable of isolating parts of the CAN bus system; much less identify the most probable part of the system in which the fault had occurred. Diagnosing this code therefore requires professional grade equipment, above average knowledge of automotive diagnostics in general, expert knowledge of the application in particular and at least 40 to 50 hours of diagnostic time.

NOTE #3: While control module failures are relatively rare, it is not altogether impossible for control modules to fail. However, do not assume any control module is defective simply because there seems to be no detectable output voltages from it. Some control modules require very specific conditions to be met before they will generate a signal voltage: conditions that can sometimes not be met because of an open circuit somewhere in the CAN system.

NOTE #4: What follows below is a brief overview of the procedures involved in diagnosing faults in the CAN bus system, as opposed to detailed instructions on how to repair all, or even most, possible faults on all applications.

Step 1

If a professional grade code reader is available, record all codes present, as well as all available freeze frame data. Note that while freeze frame data can be useful in diagnosing intermittent faults, actually finding and fixing an intermittent fault in the CAN system is very difficult, if not almost impossible. If an intermittent fault is suspected, the wiser option is to refer the vehicle for professional diagnosis and repair.

NOTE: There may be many fault codes present along with P0657, but bear in mind that these codes are almost certainly the result of P0657, as opposed to being the cause. Note that unless the manufacturer specifically states that the battery must be disconnected at some point in the diagnostic procedure, doing so to reset the fault memory is NOT recommended, since this action may set code P1000 – “OBD II Monitor Testing Not Complete.”

Step 2

If you are confident enough in your diagnostic abilities to undertake a diagnosis of this code, start the procedure by inspecting all visible wiring. Look for obvious signs of damage like burning, chafing, rubbing, or shorted and corroded wiring and/or connectors, but resist the temptation to repair any damage found. In these cases, replacing the relevant section of the wiring harness between connectors is always the better option. Replace wiring as required, clear all codes, and rescan the system to which codes (if any) return.

NOTE: Some open circuits in the CAN system are protected by fuses, so be sure to check all fused circuits with a dedicated circuit tester that can measure resistance as well as system currents. Test lights are useless for testing of this nature, since they cannot measure resistance.

Step 3

Since all control modules need a sound ground connection to work at all, perform a thorough inspection of all control module ground connections. In some cases, the ground is supplied by the PCM under certain conditions (KOER/KOEO), while in others, the ground is external, i.e., the controller is grounded on the bodywork.

With this in mind, consult the manual for the application being worked on to locate all grounding points on the vehicle, as well as the actual locations of all control modules. Check all ground connections and repair, clean, or retighten connections as required.

NOTE #1: Loss of ground is a common cause of P0657, so be sure to check for engine and body ground straps that may have been left hanging loose during prior repair procedures. Repair or replace ground straps as required, clear all codes, and rescan the system to see which codes (if any) return.

NOTE #2: Bear in mind that restoring one or more grounds will not necessarily clear, or resolve all or even some of the codes present, and especially if code P1000 is present, which is not altogether impossible to happen. P1000 requires very specific conditions to be met before it will clear itself, which conditions can generally only be met by completing one or more drive cycles exactly as specified by the manufacturer.

NOTE #3: Be aware that gaining access to all the wiring on the vehicle to inspect ground connections could involve removal of seats, carpets, trim panels, the dashboard / instrument cluster, and even the roof liner and door panels in some cases. In addition, the insulation must be removed from wiring harnesses to inspect the several hundred splice joints in the harness that can only be accessed by removing the harness insulation. Note that if insulation is to be removed from any harness, extreme care must be taken during the process to prevent causing damage to wiring where there was none before.

Step 4

If code P0657 (or any other code) persists after having found no visible damage to wiring, or even if after damage had been repaired and the prescribed drive cycles had been completed, the chances of a successful resolution of the problem are very slim. At this point, the car owner is basically faced with only two choices, which are-

• to refer the vehicle for professional diagnosis and repair, which will attract a huge repair bill even though the fault may never be found and repaired or,
• replacing ALL the wiring with OEM replacement harnesses , even though the fault may be located in a control module, some of which cannot be tested.

WARNING: The alternative to the above choices involves the individual testing each of the thousands of circuits that make up the CAN system, which is a mammoth undertaking that has huge potential to cause extensive additional, (and always-expensive) damage to the vehicle’s electrical system. Be aware that one misplaced probe or accidental short circuit could easily destroy several control modules, and/or large sections of wiring, which in turn could erase all the data on the PCM and/or other control modules.

Additionally, it must be borne in mind that some sort of memory saving device must be used to keep individual control modules powered up while testing that module’s circuits. This procedure is a major challenge in itself, and failure to follow the directions in the manual exactly could damage, or erase the data on some control modules.

Codes Related to P0657

• P0658 – Relates to “Actuator Supply Voltage Circuit Low”
• P0659 – Relates to “Actuator Supply Voltage Circuit High”

NOTE: Although code P0657 is a generic code that is most commonly defined as “Actuator Supply Voltage “A” Circuit / Open”, some manufacturers have assigned vastly different meanings to the definition. Below are some examples of different interpretations of this code, but take note that still others may exist.

• Ford: On some Ford models, code P0657 refers to the PCM that has lost some of its memory, while on others, the code refers to a loss of communication between the PCM and the transmission shift solenoids.

• VW/ Toyota / Mitsubishi: On these applications, code P0657 relates to various malfunctions of the throttle actuator. In some cases, the code refers to the throttle control motor, while on others it refers to the throttle actuator motor input circuit. However, on some VW models, P0657 also refers to a loss of communication between the PCM and some, or all the transmission shift solenoids.

• Honda/Acura: On these applications, code P0657 refers to a loss of communication between the PCM and all, or some of the transmission shift solenoids. To complicate matters however, this code is also defined as “Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor Relay Circuit Malfunction” on some Acura models.

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