Symptoms and Severity
Since many underlying factors depend on the performance of the internal ECM/PCM engine shutdown timer, this code must be treated with a certain degree of urgency.
Symptoms of a P2610 code may include:
- Initially, no obvious symptoms are likely to appear
- Decreased engine performance
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Eventually, engine driving symptoms may also appear
Causes
Potential causes for setting this code are as follows:
- ECM/PCM programming errors
- Faulty ECM/PCM
- Open or short-circuited wiring or connectors
- Faulty crankshaft position sensor (CPS) or short-circuited CPS wiring
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A good starting point is always to check the technical service bulletins (TSB) for your specific vehicle. Your issue might be a known problem with a published fix from the manufacturer, which can save you time and money during diagnosis.
To diagnose a stored P2610 code, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information (such as All Data DIY).
If one or more CPS codes are present, diagnose and repair them before attempting to diagnose a stored P2610.
At this point, you will be well served by connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic connector. Retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data, and note this information; it may be useful, especially if P2610 turns out to be an intermittent code. Now, clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to see if P2610 resets. If it resets, reconnect the scanner and observe the CPS and engine RPM data using the data stream display. Focus on CPS and RPM readings with the key on and engine off (KOEO). If the engine RPM readings indicate anything other than 0, suspect a faulty CPS or short-circuited CPS wiring. If the CPS and engine RPM data appear normal, continue the diagnostic process.
Use the DVOM to observe the ignition coil primary voltage with the ignition off. If the ignition coil primary voltage remains above five volts, suspect a short circuit (to voltage) in that system. If the voltage is at 0, continue your diagnosis.
Using your vehicle information source, determine the precise parameters used by the ECM/PCM to indicate that the engine has been shut down and an ignition cycle has ended. Once you have made this determination, use the DVOM to test all individual circuits for the associated components. To avoid damaging the ECM/PCM, disconnect all associated controllers before testing circuit resistance with the DVOM. Repair or replace faulty circuits as needed and retest the system. Keep in mind that no repair can be declared successful until the ECM/PCM enters readiness mode. To do this, simply clear the codes (after repairs are made) and drive the vehicle as usual; if the PCM enters readiness mode, the repair was successful, and if the code resets, it was not.
If all system circuits are within specifications, suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error.
Additional Diagnostic Notes:
- Failure to address a P2610 code could result in damage to the catalytic converter (among other things)
- Do not assume the PCM is faulty; system wiring malfunctions are common
- Use your vehicle information source to match technical service bulletins and/or recalls with the relevant codes and symptoms