P0654

Engine RPM Output Circuit/Open

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0654?

Yes, generally. This is an output signal to the tachometer and other modules, not the crankshaft sensor, so the engine runs and starts normally.

Q: Can I just clear P0654?

It will return until the open or short in the output circuit is repaired. Clearing won't restore a correct tachometer reading.

Control module output Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P0654 means the ECM detected an open in the engine RPM output circuit — the signal the ECM sends out to the tachometer and other modules that need engine speed. This is an output, not the crankshaft position sensor, so the engine keeps running and starting normally; the main effect is a wrong or dead tachometer and any module that relies on that signal.

Medium

Can I keep driving? The engine runs normally — this is an output signal, not the crank sensor. The tachometer or modules that read engine speed may be wrong, so it's generally safe to drive.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

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

Inaccurate or dead tachometer
Check-engine light on
Other modules that rely on the engine-speed signal may misbehave
Engine itself runs and starts normally

Common causes

Most likely first

Open or short in the RPM output wiring between the ECM and the cluster/moduleLikely
Corroded or loose connector in the output circuitCommon
Faulty instrument cluster or receiving moduleCommon
Less commonly, a faulty ECM output driverLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data to confirm it's the RPM output circuit.
Inspect the wiring from the ECM to the tachometer/receiving module for opens or shorts.
Check the connectors at the ECM and the cluster/module.
Test the ECM's output signal; if present, suspect the wiring or receiving module.
Repair the wiring or replace the faulty module, then clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0654?+

Yes, generally. This is an output signal to the tachometer and other modules, not the crankshaft sensor, so the engine runs and starts normally.

Can I just clear P0654?+

It will return until the open or short in the output circuit is repaired. Clearing won't restore a correct tachometer reading.

Read & clear P0654 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