Fault code P060F is called “Internal Control Module Coolant Temperature 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 P060F
A stored code P060F indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected an internal performance error in the coolant temperature sensor (ECT) circuit. Other controllers may also detect a PCM processor performance error and cause this code to be stored.
The module’s internal monitoring is responsible for performing various controller self-test functions and overall accountability. ECT sensor inputs and outputs are self-checked and monitored continuously by the PCM.
ECT sensors consist of a thermistor that is immersed in a solid resin and sealed in a metal or plastic housing. The most common metal used as an ECT sensor housing material is brass.
As warm coolant flows through the system, the level of thermal resistance in the ECT sensor decreases. When the engine coolant temperature decreases, the resistance increases, causing the voltage in the ECT sensor circuit to decrease.
These resistance fluctuations are recognized by the PCM as changes in engine coolant temperature. ECT sensor inputs are critical to the fuel flow calculation and ignition timing strategy.
When the ignition is turned on and power is applied to the PCM, a self-test of the ECT circuit is initiated. In addition to performing the self-test, 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 onboard controllers, indicating an internal ECT sensor error, code P060F will be stored. The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may also illuminate.
It may take several failure cycles for the MIL to illuminate, depending on the perceived severity of the malfunction.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P060F 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 fault).
- Ignition skips in the engine cylinders may occur. Also, the car engine may run unstable.
- Floating revolutions, as well as attempts to stall at idle.
- The engine does not accelerate well.
- Increased fuel consumption.
Failure of the module processor in the internal control should be categorized as a serious code. Stored error P060F can suddenly and without warning lead to serious driving problems.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P060F can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Defective ECT sensor.
- Open or short circuit in wiring circuit.
- Corroded ECT sensor electrical connector.
- CAN bus may be faulty and shorted to ground or wire breakage.
- Insufficient grounding of the control module.
- Sometimes the cause is the PCM module itself.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P060F
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P060F:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool. To find out when and under what circumstances error P060F appears.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the malfunction appears again.
- Check the ECT sensor and the circuits and connectors.
- If the error code appears again, visually inspect the control module (PCM) electrical leads and connector.
- Measure battery voltage and compare with manufacturer’s specification.
- Check the continuity of the PCM power and ground circuits with a multimeter.
- Evaluate the Control Module (PCM) operation following the vehicle manufacturer’s procedure.
- Clear the error code from the computer memory again, and test drive the vehicle to determine if the problem has been resolved.
Diagnose and repair of problems
If ECM/PCM power codes are present, they must be cleared before attempting to diagnose error P060F. Also, if ECT sensor codes are present, they must be cleared first.
Next, you must connect the scan tool to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve any stored codes and data. Make a note of this information in case the code turns out to be intermittent.
After recording all the necessary information, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle until the code is cleared or the PCM goes into standby mode. If the PCM goes into standby mode, the code is intermittent and will be more difficult to diagnose.
Check the controller and electrical parts
Use a multimeter to check the fuses and power relays on the controller. Check and replace blown fuses if necessary. Fuses should be checked with the circuit loaded.
If all fuses and relays are working as they should, a visual inspection of the controller wiring and harnesses should be performed. Chassis and motor grounding should also be checked.
Visually inspect the system controllers for signs of water, temperature, or collision damage. Any controller that is damaged, especially by water, should be considered faulty.
If the power and ground circuits of the controller are intact, it is likely that the controller itself is defective or that a programming error exists. Reprogramming the control module will be necessary to replace it.
Unlike most other codes, error P060F is most likely caused by a faulty controller or its programming error.
Some aftermarket PCM manufacturers offer preprogrammed controllers for certain models. Contact your auto parts supplier with the vehicle serial number, mileage, and other pertinent information.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P060F can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- BAW (Fenix)
- Chevrolet
- Dodge
- Ford (Focus)
- Honda
- Jeep
- Mazda
Fault code P060F can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P060A, P060B, P060C, P060D, P060E.
