Fault code P060A is called “Internal Control Module Monitoring Processor Performance” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P060A
Stored code P060A means that an internal processor performance problem has occurred in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Other controllers may also detect a PCM processor performance error and cause this code to be stored.
The internal module monitoring and processor control is responsible for various controller self-test functions and overall accountability. The internal controller temperature (especially the PCM) as well as several input and output signals are constantly monitored by specific controller processors.
When the ignition is on and the PCM is energized, numerous self-tests of the internal controller processing are initiated. In addition to performing self-tests, the Controller Area Network (CAN) also compares signals from each individual module. To ensure that each controller is operating properly, these tests are performed simultaneously.
If the PCM detects a mismatch between any of the on-board controllers, indicating an internal processor error. Then code P060A will be stored and the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate.
It may take several failure cycles for the MIL to illuminate, depending on the perceived severity of the fault.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P060A has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- The “Check Engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a malfunction).
- Floating revolutions, as well as attempts to stall at idle.
- Multiple handling problems.
- Sharp or unstable shifting of automatic transmission.
- Reduced engine power.
- Increased fuel consumption.
- Problems with a particular system, indicating possible loss of communication in that area.
Module processor malfunction in internal control should be categorized as a serious code. A stored error P060A can suddenly and without warning lead to an inability to start or serious drivability problems.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P060A can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Control module programming error.
- If the engine control module has been replaced, it may need to be programmed.
- Bad PCM power supply relay.
- Open or short circuit in wiring harness.
- Loose or damaged connectors.
- Poor grounding is a common cause.
- Blown engine-ECU fuse.
- CAN bus may be faulty and have a short to ground or wire breakage.
- Sometimes the cause is the PCM itself.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P060A
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P060A:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool. To find out when and under what circumstances error P060A appeared.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the malfunction appears again.
- If the error code appears again, visually inspect the electrical wires and powertrain control module (PCM) connector.
- Measure battery voltage and compare it to the manufacturer’s specification.
- Check continuity of powertrain control module (PCM) power and ground circuits with multimeter.
- Try reprogramming the control module.
- Evaluate powertrain control module (PCM) operation following vehicle manufacturer’s procedure.
- Clear the error code from the computer memory again, and test drive the vehicle to see if the problem is resolved.
Diagnose and repair of problems
To correct code P060A, the most common solution is to replace and reprogram the PCM. Although, faulty wiring should also be considered as a cause of this error.
Perform a thorough visual inspection of all points where the wiring rests on the body. These points represent ground connections. You will often find loose connections or even ground straps that hang down after unrelated repairs have been made.
If bad ground connections have been found and repaired, remove all codes and re-scan the system to see if any codes return. In some cases it may be necessary to re-integrate or even reprogram some controllers after a communication failure.
If all ground connections are secure, perform a thorough visual inspection of all wiring on the vehicle. Note that this inspection may require the removal of the dashboard, seats, carpets, and even trim panels to gain access to all wiring harnesses.
If no wiring damage is found, but the P060A code remains despite following the steps above. One option may be to replace the entire electrical harness. However, this will not solve the problem as the problem may be related to the controller.
Typical problems with controllers include faulty drivers, memory failure, or other components for any number of reasons. For this reason, replacing the entire harness is not recommended. Until exhaustive diagnostic tests have been performed on all controllers, including the PCM.
Checking and reprogramming
If the PCM has recently been replaced, there is a good chance that it has been improperly programmed or not programmed at all. In addition, you cannot use a controller from another vehicle. Unless it has been reprogrammed specifically for the vehicle in question.
Aftermarket (high performance) firmware may not be recognized by other controllers, causing P060A to persist.
Improperly programmed or replaced controllers may be reprogrammed by the factory scanner. If you can’t access such a scanner, most dealerships offer PCM programming for a nominal fee.
Some aftermarket PCM manufacturers offer preprogrammed controllers for certain models. Contact your auto parts supplier and get the vehicle identification number, mileage, and other pertinent data.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P060A can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Audi
- Ford (Focus, Kuga, Transit)
- Honda (Accord, Civic, Fit)
- Lifan (X60)
- Mercedes-Benz
- Nissan
- Renault (Duster)
- Toyota
Fault code P060A can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P060B, P060C, P060D, P060E, P060F, P0610.
