Fault code P06A5 is called “Sensor Reference Voltage “D” Circuit High” 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 P06A5
Stored code P06A5 means that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected too high a sensor reference voltage in the “D” circuit. In this case, it is not a specific sensor, but any of the sensors in the “D” circuit.
Usually this circuit is powered by the throttle position sensor (TPS) and accelerator pedal position sensor #1 (APPS). But sometimes others may be present, depending on make and model.
All of these sensors have a 5V reference voltage on the same circuit as the PCM, and a signal is received. If this signal received by the PCM is too high, the circuit is considered faulty and code P06A5 will be stored.
So, if the “D” voltage reference circuit is too high, all sensors that share this circuit may be affected. But in many cases, this error will be accompanied by other codes. Which will help narrow down the general area where too high a circuit signal is present.
Whether other codes are present or not, this error means that a high signal is detected in the “D” voltage reference circuit.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P06A5 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).
- Additionally, there may be codes indicating a problem with a particular sensor.
- Poor acceleration.
- The engine cannot be accelerated, the throttle response is unresponsive.
- Increased fuel consumption.
- Decrease of the engine power.
- Floating revolutions, as well as attempts to stall at idle.
The severity of the stored fault code P06A5 depends on which of the circuit sensors the breakage occurred in. Therefore, the degree of criticality will be different in each case.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P06A5 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Throttle position sensor (TPS) is defective.
- Accelerator pedal position sensor No. 1 (APPS) is defective.
- Problem with wiring and connector as melted or broken.
- Blown fuse or fusible link.
- Faulty system power relay.
- Sometimes faulty PCM module is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P06A5
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P06A5:
- First, connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s onboard computer and read all stored data and error codes.
- Then clear the error codes from the PCM memory and test-drive the vehicle to see if error P06A5 appears again.
- If the error code appears again, check the wires and connectors.
- Test the sensors in the “D” reference circuit, replace if necessary.
- Check control module (PCM), replace or reprogram if necessary.
Diagnose and repair of problems
Connect the scan tool to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored codes. Then clear them and test-drive the vehicle. If code P06A5 does not appear, then the error was temporary. If it appears, continue testing.
Perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors associated with the “D” reference circuit sensors. Replace damaged wiring or connectors if damage is detected. After that, reset the errors again, test drive and read them again.
Check the sensors
If code P06A5 reappears, refer to the manual to determine which sensors are serviced by the “D” voltage reference circuit. Since manufacturers do not always follow part, circuit, and sensor labeling conventions.
Check resistance, reference voltage, continuity, and grounding continuity for all relevant sensor wiring. Compare all data obtained with the values given in the manual.
Test the operation of each sensor using an oscilloscope, a library of waveforms will be required. If such equipment and reference data are not available, continuing with the diagnostic procedure is not recommended.
Improper testing procedures can cause serious damage to the electrical system and to one or more control modules.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P06A5 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
- Ford
- Hyundai
- Kia
Fault code P06A5 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P06A3, P06A4, P06A9.
