What Codes Will This Page Cover?
On this page, you’ll learn about the following two codes that may appear on your scan tool:
- P06DA Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit/Open
- P06DD Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
- P06DE Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On
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What Is the P06DD Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
The definition of code P06DA is “Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit/Open,” P06DD is “Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off,” and P06DE is “Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On.” These codes both indicate that the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) has received a signal that the oil pressure supply has a fault in it of some kind, although the precise fault will depend on your vehicle and the specific issue you’re experiencing. As a generic code, these error codes can appear in many OBD-II-equipped vehicles, although different vehicles may sometimes show different definitions.
You may also be interested in P0520 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit.
More About the P06DD Code
Under typical conditions, the oil pump will use the oil circuit to pump the oil and maintain normal pressure through an oil circuit opening, allowing it to reduce pressure when necessary. To control this opening, a solenoid relief valve uses two regulated pressure stages: high-pressure mode regulation, which kicks in at high engine speeds, and low-pressure mode regulation at low speeds. The P06DA code indicates that this control valve is likely stuck in the “open” position, while code P06DD usually indicates that it’s stuck “off” or “closed” and P06DE indicates that it’s stuck “on.”
What Are the Symptoms of a P06DD Code?
There are many possible symptoms of the P06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes. Although the symptoms will likely differ depending on which code you’re experiencing, the problem generally results in serious drivability issues. For code P06DA, the most common symptom is difficulty starting the vehicle, including a delay after turning the key and stalling when you try to start the car. The engine may also stall while driving or idling due to a lack of minimum pressure. The P06DD and P06DE codes can result in a noisy engine, high engine vibrations, noisy valve gear, and poor-quality idling. These codes can also cause general engine performance issues, including low engine power, reduced vehicle performance, and fuel economy issues. You will also likely see the check engine light turn on for both codes.
What Are Some Causes of a P06DD Code?
Many issues can result in the P06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes. Here are just a few:
- Low oil level
- Old or dirty engine oil
- Oil leakage
- Wrong oil filter used, including aftermarket filters
- Clogged oil inlet port screen
- Poor electrical connections within the circuit
- Damaged wiring or electrical connectors within the circuit
- Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid
- Malfunctioning or faulty accelerator pedal position sensor
- Faulty camshaft position actuator solenoid valve
- Defective oil pressure sensor
- Oil pump failure
- Mechanical crankshaft failure
Some causes are more common for the P06DA code, while others are more common for the P06DD or P06DE codes. While these codes are very similar and related, it’s important to learn more about the causes of each individually, depending on what’s showing up with your code scanner.
How Serious Is the P06DD Code?
The P06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes are serious. Not only can these codes make it difficult for you to start the car, but they can also lead to stalling problems when you’re driving, which is obviously dangerous for you and everyone else on the road. Additionally, issues with the P06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes have to do with a problem surrounding your oil system, which can result in engine damage and even engine failure — loss of oil pressure is one of the quickest ways to seriously damage an engine. Always get help for these codes when they appear, even if you don’t feel like they result in serious drivability issues. They can result in engine issues over time.
Can I Still Drive with a P06DD Code?
You should avoid driving if your vehicle shows the P06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes. These generic codes are not good for your engine, even if they’re not causing severe issues and your vehicle runs normally. You can experience serious engine damage if you continue to drive when this common engine code is active. The problem can also be in many different areas, from wire assembly and wire harness issues to a problem with a dead battery or even fuel injection problems, meaning you’ll probably need to invest in more complex solutions than some more common issues may require. If you know that you’re seeing these low or excessive oil pressure codes, even if it doesn’t feel like they’re causing noticeable issues while driving, stop until you can have an expert check them out.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P06DD Code?
The diagnostic procedure for the P06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes is often difficult. As you’ve already seen, many causes may arise for either of these codes, and it’s up to you to determine which one is most likely for your specific code and situation. Being able to search through the entirety of the engine oil pressure circuit to determine what’s wrong with this complicated code is quite difficult for many DIYers, especially if you don’t have extensive diagnostic equipment. If you’re uncertain of your ability to do so, it’s a good idea to talk to a certified mechanic to get help.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P06DD Code?
The inspection process for theP06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes is also frequently quite difficult. After all, you need to get into a system that you probably don’t deal with very often and check a variety of wiring and connectors you don’t have much experience with. You might need a code reader, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source, which may include technical service bulletins, vehicle guides, and wiring diagrams. Certain processes like the powertrain verification test may also be required, which can be easy for an independent repair facility but difficult for a DIYer. If you don’t have much experience with the inspection process for these diagnostic trouble codes, talk to a professional mechanic instead to get a fix that doesn’t require a follow-up repair.
Need Additional Help with Your P06DD Code?
Most people will need additional assistance with their P06DA, P06DD, and P06DE codes, as these engine operating conditions aren’t easy to fix for most DIYers.
First, you should find an auto repair shop in your area. A great local auto repair shop will help you fix your codes permanently, determining the best repair procedure for your specific vehicle.
Your code tool may also indicate that additional codes are coming up simultaneously, which may be causing noticeable issues. The OBD-II database at KBB.com will give you more insight into your other fault codes.
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