📌 Error Code P0560: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
🔍 What Does Code P0560 Mean?
Code P0560 is a generic diagnostic code from the Powertrain group. It generally applies to all vehicles since 1996, including Hyundai, Toyota, Saab, Kia, Honda, Dodge, Ford, and Jaguar.
This code is related to the vehicle’s charging system and is triggered when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects an anomaly in the electrical voltage.
The PCM monitors the charging system voltage by checking the ignition power circuit. If the voltage is too high or too low, an error code is recorded. This issue is strictly electrical and can be caused by various factors.
⚠️ Symptoms of Code P0560
A P0560 code can cause the following symptoms:
✅ Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) illuminated
✅ Red battery light activated
✅ Transmission not shifting properly
✅ Engine not starting or stalling after starting
✅ Decreased fuel economy
🔧 Possible Causes
The most common causes of this code are:
- Cable between the alternator and battery with high resistance (poor connection)
- Open circuit or high resistance between the alternator and PCM
- Faulty alternator (most common cause)
- Failing PCM (rare)
🛠️ Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
✅ 1. Check Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
First, consult TSBs specific to your vehicle. Some manufacturers recognize this issue and offer official solutions, which can save you time and money.
✅ 2. Test the Charging System Voltage
- Start the vehicle
- Activate electrical consumers (headlights, ventilation, etc.)
- Use a digital voltmeter (DVOM) to measure battery voltage
- Normal value: between 13.2V and 14.7V
- If <12V or >15.5V, the problem is likely with the alternator
If in doubt, you can have the battery and alternator tested for free at a workshop or auto parts store.
✅ 3. Check Electrical Connections
- Inspect cables and connectors of the PCM and alternator.
- Check for exposed, burnt, or corroded wires.
- Clean connector terminals with electrical contact cleaner.
✅ 4. Clear the Code and Test Again
- Delete error codes with a diagnostic tool.
- If the code does not return, the problem was likely intermittent.
- If the code returns, proceed to the next step.
✅ 5. Check PCM Power and Ground
- Disconnect the negative battery cable.
- Disconnect the PCM harness.
- Reconnect the battery and turn on the ignition.
- Use a voltmeter to test PCM power and ground:
- If the voltage is lower than battery voltage, the problem is with the wiring.
- Check the ground using a test light.
✅ 6. Final Check: The PCM
If all previous steps are correct but the P0560 code persists, the issue may be with the PCM itself.
⚠️ Warning: Replacing the PCM requires vehicle-specific programming and should be done by a professional.
📌 Conclusion
Code P0560 is usually caused by a faulty alternator or an electrical connection problem. A simple check of the charging system and cleaning the connectors can often resolve the issue. If the problem persists after these checks, advanced PCM diagnostics are necessary.
Need help? Consult an auto repair shop or use an OBD-II diagnostic tool to confirm the exact cause. 🚗💡