The P06DE code reads “Engine oil pressure control circuit stuck on”. Often, in programs working with an OBD-2 scanner, the name may have the English spelling “Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On”.
Technical description and explanation of the P06DE code
OBD-II DTC P06DE is a generic code that defines the engine oil pressure control circuit stuck ON. Set when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects oil pressure above a calibrated minimum threshold. In this case, the oil pump solenoid can be disabled for 250 seconds.
Changes in oil pressure cause either a decrease or an increase in the resistance of the oil pressure switch. The PCM interprets these changes in resistance as the actual oil pressure at that moment at a given engine speed.
The PCM is programmed to recognize a range of signal voltages that are compared to the reference oil pressure range for the vehicle. Therefore, when the PCM detects an abnormal signal voltage, P06DE is set.
The warning light on the instrument panel may also come on. Which, in turn, complements the error code and may indicate abnormal oil pressure.
A common cause is a jammed oil pressure sensor that requires replacement. Also, the reason may be a low oil level, in which case it is necessary to change the oil.
Malfunction symptoms
The main symptom of a P06DE code for a driver is a MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) illuminated. It is also called Check engine or simply “check is on”.
They can also manifest as:
- The control lamp “Check engine” on the control panel will light up (the code will be written into memory as a malfunction).
- Lit control lamp for oil pressure.
- When the engine is running, various mechanical noises can occur, which change when the speed changes.
Error P06DE oil pressure is considered very serious and it is recommended that the problem be corrected as soon as possible. For example, excessive oil pressure can cause problems with engine seals.
Reasons for the error
A P06DE code can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Defective engine oil pressure sensor.
- Excessive resistance in the oil pressure sensor circuit.
- Damaged, burnt, shorted or corroded wiring.
- Use of unsuitable engine oil.
- Poor maintenance, such as irregular oil and oil filter changes.
- Excessive mechanical wear on the engine.
- Mechanical failure of internal engine components such as oil pump, oil pressure relief valve. And also, possibly tensioners or timing chain guides.
- Sometimes the cause is a faulty PCM.
How to Repair or Reset DTC P06DE
Some suggested steps to troubleshoot and fix the P06DE error code:
- Read all data and stored error codes using an OBD-II scanner.
- Clear the codes and check if the P06DE error code appears again.
- Check the level and condition of the engine oil. Change the oil together with the filter if necessary.
- Inspect the engine oil pressure sensor and associated wiring.
- Check the sensor with a DMM, replace if necessary.
- Pay attention to mechanical wear on the engine. Physically check the oil pressure with a mechanical pressure gauge.
Diagnostics and problem solving
Make sure that the oil level is at the proper mark, that it has not been diluted with fuel or coolant, and that it does not have a thick, gummy consistency. Add or change oil if necessary before proceeding with further diagnostics.
Perform a thorough visual inspection of the wiring for damaged, burnt, disconnected, shorted or corroded wires and connectors. Repair as needed, clear the P06DE code and re-scan the system to see if the code returns.
Checking the wiring with a multimeter
After no visible damage is found, check resistance, grounding, and reference voltage. Compare all the readings obtained with the data stated in the manual. Replace wiring as necessary to ensure all readings are within manufacturer’s specifications.
Remember to disconnect the oil pressure switch from the PCM during resistance and integrity testing to prevent damage to the controller. It is also necessary to check the oil pressure switch as it is part of the control circuit.
Checking the oil pressure
Make sure the oil pressure is within the manufacturer’s specified range by attaching a pressure gauge to the engine. It is not recommended to use a scanner as the scanner uses the same information as PCM.
The PCM and the scanner may indicate an oil pressure condition that is based on incorrect data.
The pressure gauge may take a few seconds to register, but should stabilize after about ten seconds. Record the reading and compare with the value stated in the manual.
Allow the engine to warm up by observing the pressure gauge reading. As it warms up, there may be a slight drop in pressure indicated by the pressure gauge. But the oil pressure should not fall below the minimum specified value when the engine is at operating temperature.
Oil pressure readings that do not meet acceptable lower limits indicate excessive wear or other mechanical problems within the engine. In these cases, simply replacing the oil pressure switch will not solve the P06DE problem.
On what cars is this problem more common?
The problem with the P06DE code can occur on different machines, but there are always statistics on which brands this error is more common. Here is a list of some of them:
- Cadillac (Cadillak CTS)
- Chevrolet (Chevrolet Colorado, Malibu)
- Dodge Caravan
- Jeep (Jeep Wrangler)
- Mazda (Mazda cx5)
- Opel (Opel Insignia)
Other errors can sometimes be found with DTC P06DE. The most common are the following: P06DA, P06DB, P06DC, P06DD.