Fault code P062C is called “Internal Control Module Vehicle Speed 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 P062C
Stored code P062C means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an internal performance error with the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) signal. 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. The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) input and output signals are self-tested and monitored continuously by the PCM.
The VSS is an electromagnetic sensor that interacts with a gear wheel or pinion that is mechanically attached to an axle or driveshaft. When the shaft rotates, the toothed ring rotates as well.
The notches in the gear ring create interruptions in the electromagnetic sensor circuit, these interruptions arrive at the PCM as a waveform. The faster the waveforms arrive at the controller, the higher the estimated speed of the vehicle.
When the ignition is turned on and power is applied to the PCM, a self-test of the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) signal is initiated. In addition to performing the self-test, the Controller Area Network (CAN) also compares the signals from each individual module. To ensure that each controller is operating properly, these tests are performed simultaneously.
If the PCM detects a mismatch in the VSS input and output signals, code P062C will be stored. Also, if the PCM detects a mismatch between any of the on-board controllers. Which indicates an internal VSS error, this code will also be stored.
It may take several failure cycles for the MIL check lamp to turn on, depending on the perceived severity of the fault.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P062C 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 stored as a fault).
- Other related trouble codes may also be present.
- Unstable operation of speedometer or odometer.
- Unclear gear shifting in the presence of an automatic transmission.
- The control lamp (ABS) on the dashboard may be illuminated.
- Disabling the vehicle’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control system (TCS).
- Unexpected triggering of the anti-lock brakes or traction control system.
Failure of the module processor during internal control should be categorized as a serious code. A stored error P062C can suddenly and without warning lead to serious steering problems.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P062C can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Defective vehicle speed sensor (VSS).
- Excessive accumulation of metal debris on the VSS.
- Damaged or worn toothed ring.
- Open or short circuit in wiring harness.
- Corroded electrical sensor 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 itself.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P062C
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P062C:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool. To find out when and under what circumstances error P062C appeared.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory, and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the malfunction appears again.
- Check the vehicle speed sensor (VSS).
- Inspect the gear ring.
- Correct any problems found.
- If the error code appears again, visually inspect the electrical wiring and the control module connector (PCM).
- Measure the battery voltage and compare it to the value specified in the manufacturer’s specifications.
- 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 supply codes are present, they must be cleared before attempting to diagnose error P062C. Also, if vehicle speed sensor (VSS) or control circuit fault 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 P062C 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 P062C can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Dodge (RAM)
- Ford (Crown Victoria, Explorer, F-150)
- Mercedes-Benz (Sprinter)
- Nissan (Qashqai)
- Peugeot
Fault code P062C can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P061A, P061B, P061C, P061D, P061E, P061F, P062B.
