P0650 Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit Malfunction
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit
What does that mean?
This code is a generic powertrain code. It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles (1996-newer), although specific repair steps may be slightly different depending on the model.
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is set when the vehicle’s Powertrain Control Module detects a fault with the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) electrical circuit.
The MIL is commonly referred to as the "Check Engine Light" or "Service Engine Soon" light. MIL is the correct term, however. Basically what happens on some vehicles is the vehicles’ PCM senses too high or low, or no voltage present through the M.I. lamp. The PCM controls the lamp by monitoring the ground circuit of the lamp and checks the voltage on that ground circuit.
Note: It is normal operation for the malfunction indicator lamp to illuminate for a few seconds and then go out when the ignition is turned on or the car is started.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a P0650 DTC may include:
Causes
Potential causes may include:
Diagnostic Steps & Possible Solutions
First thing to check is whether the bulb comes on when it’s supposed to. It’s supposed to come on for a few seconds when the ignition is turned on. If the light turns on for a few seconds and then goes off, you know the bulb/LED is good. If the lamp turns on and stays on you also know the bulb/LED is good.
If the MIL does not come on at all, you need to diagnose where the problem lies. If you have access to an advanced scan tool, you can use it to command the MIL on and off. Verify operation that way.
Physically check if the bulb is burned out. Replace if it is. Also, inspect to make sure the bulb is seated properly and making a good electrical connection. Visually inspect all the wiring & connectors leading from the M.I. lamp to the PCM. Inspect the wires for chafed insulation, etc. Separate all connectors as required to inspect for bent pins, corrosion, broken terminals, etc. Clean or repair as required. You will need access to a vehicle specific repair manual to identify the correct wires and harnesses.
Check if other things in the instrument cluster are working properly. Other warning lamps, gauges, etc. Note that you may need to remove the cluster during the diagnostic steps.
If your vehicle is equipped with a PCM or MIL fuse, check it, replace as necessary. If everything thus far checks out, you should use a digital volt ohm meter (DVOM) to probe the appropriate wires in the circuit at the lamp end and the PCM end, verify proper operation. Check for shorts to ground, or an open circuit.
If everything checks out against manufacturers specifications, replace the PCM, it could be an internal fault. Replacing the PCM is the last resort and requires the use of specialized equipment to program it, consult a qualified technician to assist.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0650 in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0650 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 p0650.
