P0606

Control Module Processor

Powertrain control module (PCM/ECM) Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0606 indicates an internal processor fault inside the engine/powertrain control module (ECM/PCM) — the computer that runs the engine. Because everything depends on it, the engine may run erratically, stall, or fail to start, and unrelated codes can appear. Check the module's power, grounds, and connectors before assuming the ECM itself has failed.

High

Can I keep driving? No — an internal processor fault in the ECM/PCM can make the engine run erratically, stall, or not start; treat it as a stop-and-diagnose condition and avoid driving until it's resolved.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

1,302

scans in the past year

Found in

0.2%

of scans

0.4%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0606 scans

P0335in 16.8% of scans

P0336in 12.6% of scans

P0113in 11.4% of scans

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on (may stay on constantly)
Engine runs poorly, stalls, or won't start
Reduced power or erratic behavior
Other seemingly unrelated codes set at the same time

Common causes

Most likely first

Poor ECM power or ground (corroded/loose connectors, bad grounds)Likely
Damaged or corroded ECM wiringCommon
Water or physical damage to the moduleCommon
Internal ECM/PCM failureLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check battery voltage and the ECM's power and ground circuits first.
Inspect ECM connectors and wiring for corrosion, damage, or moisture.
Clear the code and see if it returns immediately (hard fault) or was a glitch.
Reflash/reprogram the ECM if the manufacturer has an update.
Replace and program the ECM if it's confirmed failed.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0606?+

No. An internal control-module fault can cause stalling or a no-start without warning. Have it diagnosed before relying on the vehicle.

Can I just clear P0606?+

You can try — sometimes it's a one-time glitch from a low battery or bad connection. If it comes straight back, the module or its wiring needs repair.

Read & clear P0606 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX