What Does It Mean?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) generally applies to many OBD-II vehicles. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Dodge, Ram (Cummins), Ford (Powerstroke), Chrysler, Mitsubishi, Land Rover, Mercedes Benz, etc.
When a P061A code is stored, it means the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected an internal performance error within the engine torque monitoring system. Other controllers may also detect an internal PCM performance error (related to the engine torque monitoring system) and contribute to the storage of a P061A code.
The internal control module monitoring processors are responsible for various controller self-test tasks and the overall responsibility of the internal control module. The input and output signals of the engine torque calculation system are self-tested and are continuously monitored by the PCM and other associated controllers. The Transmission Control Module (TCM), the Traction Control System Module (TCSM), and other controllers are subject to interaction with the engine torque monitoring system.
Engine torque is monitored (by the PCM and other controllers) using input signals from the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor and the Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor (also known as the pedal position sensor). The desired or approximate required engine torque is calculated using the APP sensor, and the actual engine torque is calculated using data from the MAF sensor.
Whenever the ignition is turned on and the PCM is powered up, internal engine torque monitoring self-tests are initiated. In addition to running internal controller self-tests, the Controller Area Network (CAN) also compares the signals from each individual module to ensure all controllers are functioning correctly. These tests are performed simultaneously.
If the PCM detects a difference between the desired torque and the actual torque (more than 50 Newton-meters for more than one second) with an engine speed above 5000 RPM and a volumetric efficiency greater than 16%, a P061A code will be stored and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) may illuminate. Multiple failure cycles may be required for the MIL to illuminate, depending on the perceived severity of the malfunction.
Photo of a PCM with the cover removed:
Powertrain Control Module PCM
How Severe Is This DTC?
- Internal control module processor codes should be classified as severe.
- A stored P061A code could lead to serious driving and fuel economy problems, suddenly and without warning.
- What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P061A trouble code may include:
- Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- Unresponsive acceleration
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- MAF or throttle actuator codes are also present
What are some common causes of the code?
Causes of this code may include:
- Faulty electronic throttle control servo
- Open or shorted circuit in the throttle control servo circuit
- Clogged air filter element
- Debris on the MAF sensor hot wire
- Faulty APP/MAF sensor
- Corroded MAF sensor electrical connector
- PCM programming error or faulty PCM
- Open or shorted circuits or connectors in the CAN bus
- Insufficient control module ground
- Open or shorted circuits between the APP/MAF sensor and the PCM
What are the P061A troubleshooting steps?
Even for the most experienced and well-equipped professional technician, diagnosing a P061A code can be very challenging. There is also the issue of reprogramming. Without the necessary reprogramming equipment, it will be impossible to replace a faulty controller and perform a successful repair.
If ECM/PCM power codes are present, they will obviously need to be rectified before attempting to diagnose a P061A. Furthermore, if there are MAF/APP sensor or Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) codes, these should be diagnosed and repaired first.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for testing the MAF, APP, and TPS sensors. An oscilloscope can be particularly useful when testing APP and TPS sensors. Replace faulty components as necessary.
Several preliminary tests can be performed before declaring an individual controller faulty. A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source will be required. An oscilloscope may also prove useful.
Connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data. You will want to note this information, just in case the code proves to be intermittent. After recording all relevant information, clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle until the code resets or the PCM enters readiness mode. If the PCM enters readiness mode, the code is intermittent and will be more difficult to diagnose. The condition that caused the P061A to be stored may even need to worsen before a diagnosis can be made. If the code resets, proceed with this short list of preliminary tests.
When trying to diagnose a P061A, information can be your best tool. Search your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that correlate the stored code, the vehicle (year, make, model, and engine), and the symptoms presented. If you find the right TSB, it may provide diagnostic information that will assist you significantly.
Use your vehicle information source to obtain connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, component locators, wiring schematics, and diagnostic flowcharts related to the specific code and vehicle in question.
Use the DVOM to test the controller’s power fuses and relays. Test and replace blown fuses as needed. Fuses should be tested under load.
If all fuses and relays appear to be functioning as expected, a visual inspection of the wiring and harnesses related to the controller is necessary. You will also want to check the chassis and engine ground junctions. Use your vehicle information source to obtain ground locations for the related circuits. Use the DVOM to test ground integrity.
Visually inspect the system controllers for signs of water, heat, or collision damage. Any damaged controller, especially by water, should be considered faulty.
If the controller’s power and ground circuits are intact, suspect a faulty controller or a controller programming error. Replacing the controller will require reprogramming. In some cases, you can purchase pre-programmed controllers through aftermarket sources. Other vehicles/controllers will require on-board reprogramming that can only be performed by a dealership or another qualified source.
Unlike most other codes, P061A is likely caused by a faulty controller or a controller programming error.
Test the system ground integrity by connecting the DVOM’s negative test lead to ground and the positive test lead to battery voltage.