Fault code P06DE – engine oil pressure control circuit stuck on

Fault code P06DE is called “Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On” 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 P06DE

The OBD-II P06DE trouble code is a generic code defined as “Engine oil pressure control circuit stuck on”. It is set when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects oil pressure above the calibrated minimum threshold. This may cause the oil pump solenoid to shut off for 250 seconds.

Changes in oil pressure cause either a decrease or increase in oil pressure switch resistance. The PCM understands these resistance changes as the actual oil pressure at that moment at that engine speed.

The PCM is programmed to recognize a range of signal voltages that are compared to the oil pressure reference range for that vehicle. Therefore, when the PCM detects an abnormal signal voltage, code P06DE is set.

The warning light on the instrument panel may also illuminate. Which, in turn, complements the error code and may indicate abnormal oil pressure.

A common cause is a jammed oil pressure sensor, which requires replacement. It can also be caused by low oil level, in which case the oil must be changed.

Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions

The main signal that an error P06DE has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.

It can also be warning signs such as:

1. Check engine control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a fault).
2. Oil pressure check lamp illuminated.
3. Various mechanical noises may occur while the engine is running and change as the speed changes.

The error P06DE related to oil pressure is considered very serious, so it is recommended to eliminate this problem as soon as possible. For example, excessive oil pressure can cause problems with the engine seals.

Factors that can cause this error code

The error code P06DE can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:

• Engine oil pressure sensor is defective.
• Excessive resistance in oil pressure sensor circuit.
• Damaged, burned, shorted, or corroded wiring.
• Use of unsuitable engine oil.
• Poor maintenance, such as irregular oil and oil filter changes.
• Excessive mechanical wear and tear on the engine.
• Mechanical failure of internal engine components such as oil pump, oil pressure relief valve. Also, possibly tensioners or timing chain guides.
• Sometimes the cause is a faulty PCM module.

How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P06DE

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P06DE:

1. Read all data and stored error codes, using an OBD-II scanner.
2. Clear the codes and check if error code P06DE appears again.
3. Check the level and condition of the engine oil. If necessary, replace the oil along with the filter.
4. Inspect the engine oil pressure sensor and associated wiring.
5. Check the sensor with a digital multimeter, replace it if necessary.
6. Pay attention to mechanical wear and tear on the engine. Physically check the oil pressure with a mechanical oil pressure gauge.

Diagnose and repair of problems

Check that the oil level is at the proper level, that it is not diluted with fuel or coolant, and that it is not of a thick, tarry consistency. If necessary, refill or replace the oil before proceeding with further diagnosis.

Perform a thorough visual inspection of the wiring to look for damaged, burned, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wires and connectors. If necessary, repair, clear code P06DE and re-scan the system to see if the code returns.

Check the wiring with a multimeter

After no visible damage is found, check the resistance, ground, and reference voltage. Compare all readings with those in the manual. If necessary, replace the wiring to ensure that all readings meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

Remember to disconnect the oil pressure switch from the PCM while checking resistance and continuity to prevent damage to the controller. The oil pressure switch should also be checked as it is part of the control circuit.

Checking the oil pressure

You need to make sure that the oil pressure is within the range specified by the manufacturer, this can be done by attaching a pressure gauge to the engine. Using a scanner is not recommended because the scanner uses the same information as the PCM.

The PCM and the scan tool may indicate an oil pressure condition that is based on incorrect data.

It may take a few seconds for the gauge to record a reading, but after about ten seconds it should stabilize. Record the reading and compare it to the value in the manual.

Allow the engine to warm up, watching the gauge reading. As the engine warms up, there may be a slight drop in pressure indicated by the pressure gauge. But oil pressure should not drop below the minimum specified value when the engine is at operating temperature.

Oil pressure readings that fall below the acceptable lower limits indicate excessive wear or other mechanical problems inside the engine. In this case, simply replacing the oil pressure switch will not solve error P06DE.

On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently

Fault code P06DE can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:

• Cadillac (CTS)
• Chevrolet (Colorado, Malibu)
• Dodge (Caravan)
• Jeep (Wrangler)
• Mazda (CX-5)
• Opel (Insignia)

Fault code P06DE can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P06DA, P06DB, P06DC, P06DD.

Video