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What Does a P0605 Code Mean and How Can You Fix It

  • Cars Explained
  • Renee Martin
  • 4 minutes

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When your ‘Check Engine’ light starts blinking, it could indicate a P0605 code for your car. So what does it mean, and how can you fix it?

A P0605 code has to do with the car’s Engine Control Module (also called the Powertrain Control Module in new cars). The ECM is like the brain of the car, without which none of the other motor functions will work properly! So how can you diagnose such an error code, and what can you do to fix it? We break it down in this post.

What does a P0605 code mean?

The P0605 OBD-II error code indicates a ROM error in the internal control module of the ECM. The ECM controls the important functions in a modern vehicle like:

  • Ignition timing
  • Fuel injection
  • Traction control
  • Anti-lock braking
  • Transmission

The ECM’s ROM (Read Only Memory) consists of several stored parameters which it uses to test and self-diagnose whether all its functions are working properly.

Whenever there is a mismatch between the ECM calculations and the stored parameters, it cannot evaluate whether the engine is running properly, and a P0605 code is brought up. This could be because the data stored on the ROM software was lost, corrupted, or disrupted in some way.

What are the symptoms of a P0605 code?

You may see the following symptoms, which can indicate a ROM error in the internal control module:

  • Check Engine light may be on
  • The ABS/Traction control light is illuminated
  • There could be a loss of fuel economy
  • Engine misfires and stalling
  • The engine may not start at all
  • Transmission problems

How to fix a P0605 code

What causes a P0605 code to occur?

There could be several reasons for such a diagnostic code to occur:

  • The power supply to the ECM could be defective – incorrect voltage supplied
  • Faulty ECM ROM memory
  • There could be broken solder points on the ECM circuit
  • ECM may need to be updated

How serious is a P0605 code?

Imagine something happens to the brain in your body – what do you think will be the result? Your regular body functions may go for a toss, and your body may shut down! The same thing happens when there is an issue with the Engine Control Module (ECM) – especially the P0605 code. Therefore, it should be considered serious and fixed immediately.

In such a situation, the ECM is unable to evaluate whether it is capable of running the car properly. This may result in the faulty working of the other functions like ABS, transmission, ignition, fuel management, and more, which in turn could put the driver and occupants in danger. The vehicle may even start to emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen.

How can you diagnose a P0605 error code?

Get your car checked by a trained technician or mechanic in order to successfully resolve the error. Usually, he will do the following to diagnose it:

  • Check the wires connecting the ECM to other parts for any issues
  • Inspect the ECM circuit board for any issues in the solder points
  • Check for issues in internal voltage and ground points
  • Inspect the related Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to check if the ECM needs reprogramming

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How to fix a P0605 code

In some cases, the technician may find that it’s a simple voltage issue that is causing the error code. However, in more serious cases, he may have to reprogram, update, or even replace the Engine Control Module.

Can you fix a P0605 code yourself?

Unfortunately, you cannot fix a P0605 code by yourself, since it needs some level of technical/electrical knowledge. A technician will be better equipped to find and resolve issues in the ECM circuit, powertrain module, software, and more.

How much does it cost to fix a P0605 code?

It will typically take around 30 minutes to an hour to diagnose and fix a P0605 code. Depending upon the shop charges and labor rates, it may cost you between $70-100 to fix this error code. However, in very rare cases, you may need to replace the ECM entirely, which will cost you more than $800.

Also read: Find Out How to Fix Common Engine Error Codes

How can you fix a P0605 code


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