P063F Auto Configuration Engine Coolant Temperature Input Not Present
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Auto Configuration Engine Coolant Temperature Input Not Present
What does that mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, Hyundai, Kia, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
If your OBD-II equipped vehicle has stored a code P063F, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has not detected an auto configuration engine coolant temperature input signal.
When the ignition cylinder is placed in the ON position and the various on-board controllers (the PCM included) are energized, multiple self-tests are initiated. The PCM depends upon input signals from engine sensors to automatically configure an engine start-up strategy and perform these self-tests. Engine coolant temperature is among the key input signals required by the PCM for auto configuration.
The engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT) should provide the PCM (and other controllers) with a engine coolant temperature input signal for automatic configuration purposes. The ECT is a brass, steel or plastic sensor with a thermal resistor (suspended in resin) inside the tip. The ECT is typically threaded into an engine coolant passage so that the tip is inserted into the passage. Engine coolant flows across the tip of the sensor and affects the thermal resistor inside. As engine coolant warms up, ECT sensor resistance decreases and circuit voltage increases. As engine coolant temperature decreases, ECT sensor resistance decreases and circuit voltage decreases.
If the PCM fails to detect a ECT sensor input circuit, when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position and the PCM is energized, a code P063F will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp may be illuminated. The auto configuration system may also be deactivated; resulting in serious drivability issues.
A typical coolant temperature sensor:
What is the severity of this DTC?
Auto configuration codes should be taken seriously as engine start up idle quality and drivability may be at risk. Classify a stored code P063F as severe and address it as such.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P063F trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
What are some P063F troubleshooting steps?
If there are other ECT related codes present, diagnose and repair those before attempting to diagnose the P063F. Also make sure that the engine is full of the appropriate coolant and not overheating before testing.
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), an infrared thermometer with a laser pointer, and a reliable source of vehicle information will be required to accurately diagnose a code P063F.
Consult your source of vehicle information for applicable technical service bulletins (TSB). If you discover one that matches the vehicle, symptoms, and codes with which you are wrestling, it may aid in reaching a correct diagnosis.
I always begin any code diagnosis by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and pertinent freeze frame data. I like to write this information down (or print it if possible) in case I need it later (after the codes are cleared). Next, I clear the codes and test drive the vehicle until one of two scenarios occurs:
A. The code fails to reset and the PCM enters readiness mode
B. The code is reset
If scenario A occurs, you are dealing with an intermittent code and the conditions which caused it may have to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
If scenario B occurs, continue with the steps listed below.
Step 1
Perform a visual inspection of all related wiring and connectors. Check PCM power supply fuses and relays. Make repairs as required. If no problems are found, proceed to the next step.
Step 2
Obtain diagnostic flow charts, wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pin-out charts, and component testing specifications/procedures from your vehicle information source.
Once you have the correct information, use the DVOM to test ECT voltage, ground, and signal circuits.
Step 3
Begin with a simple test of voltage (usually 5-volts) and ground signals at the ECT connector. If there is no voltage, use the DVOM to trace the circuit back to the appropriate terminal of the PCM connector. If there is no voltage on this pin, suspect that the PCM is defective. If there is voltage at the PCM connector pin, repair the open circuit between the PCM and the ECT. If there is no ground, trace the circuit back to the central ground location and make repairs as needed. If ground and voltage are discovered at the ECT connector, proceed to the next step.
Step 4
Use the infrared thermometer to discover the actual temperature of the engine coolant. The scanner data stream will reveal what temperature (or degree of voltage) is being input to the PCM (if any). Compare the voltage to temp information (found in your vehicle information source) to determine if the ECT sensor is functioning normally.
If the ECT and all system circuits are functional, suspect a defective PCM or a PCM programming error.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p063f in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p063f and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p063f.
