P06AB PCM/ECM/TCM Internal Temperature Sensor “B” Circuit
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
PCM/ECM/TCM Internal Temperature Sensor B Circuit
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Mazda, Honda, Dodge, Ford, BMW, VW, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
OBD-II trouble codes P06AB, P06AC, P06AD, and P06AE are associated with the internal temperature sensor "B" circuit of different modules. This circuit incorporates the Power Control Module (PCM), the Engine Control Module (ECM) and/or the Transmission Control Module (TCM). Refer to a vehicle specific repair guide to determine which is the "B" circuit in your particular case.
The purpose of the PCM/ECM/TCM internal temperature sensor "B" circuit is to monitor the temperature of various sensors housed within the control modules. Malfunctions are identified through the process of control module self-test failures. On some automobiles, the three modules are integrated into one consolidated unit, normally referred to as the PCM.
When the PCM, ECM or TCM detects improper signals within the internal temperature sensor "B" circuit, code P06AB will be set and the check engine light or the transmission warning lamp will be illuminated.
An example of a TCM transmission control module:
What is the severity of this DTC?
The severity of this code can vary tremendously from just an illuminated check engine light or a transmission warning lamp on a vehicle that starts and runs to an automobile that will stall or not start at all. The code can be serious depending on the specific nature of the problem.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P06AB trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P06AB code may include:
What are some P06AB troubleshooting steps?
The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s) for the specific vehicle by year, model and power plant. In some circumstances this can save a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.
The second step is to locate all of the control modules within this circuit and perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burn spots. This process must also include ground straps and ground wires. Next is to check the connectors for security, corrosion and damaged pins. This process must include the PCM, ECM and the TCM based on the specific vehicle and the control module configuration. The specific tech data for the automobile will assist you with component location and the control module configuration.
Advanced Steps
The advanced steps become very vehicle specific and require the appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multi meter and the specific technical references for the vehicle. Specific technical data will include troubleshooting charts and the appropriate sequence to follow assisting you with an accurate diagnosis.
Voltage Checks
Specific troubleshooting guidelines must be referenced to determine the voltage ranges required for the various control modules. These references will include the pin numbers and the voltage requirements that are associated with the PCM/ECM/TCM internal temperature sensor/circuit. Most, but not all control modules require a reference voltage of approximately 9 volts. Voltage requirements will vary based on the specific year and model of the vehicle.
If this process identifies the absence of a power source or ground, continuity testing may be required to check the integrity of the wiring, connectors and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power removed from the circuit and the normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or no continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced. A continuity test from the various control modules to the frame will confirm the serviceability level of ground straps and ground wires. The presents of resistance is an indication of a loose connection or possible corrosion.
What are some common repairs for this code?
Misdiagnosis may result replacing the PCM, ECM or TCM is often done in error, when faulty wiring loose connections are causing this code. Also, on vehicles equipped with two or more control modules the wrong module may be replaced in error.
Hopefully, the information in this article has been helpful to point you in the right direction to correct the problem with your PCM/ECM/TCM internal temperature sensor/circuit fault code. This article is strictly informational and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p06ab in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p06ab 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 p06ab.
