P06A3 code meaning
Sensor Reference Voltage D Circuit/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P06xx codes Check engine light
What P06A3 means
The engine module feeds sensors from several regulated 5 V reference circuits; a short at one sensor pulls the whole circuit down, so all its sensors report at once – unplug them one by one to find the culprit. On GM engines (2016–2025) circuit D feeds pedal sensor 1 and both throttle position sensors, on the Saab 9-4X the throttle and pedal sensor 1 – a fault therefore usually means electronic throttle limp mode. P06A3 is the general code for circuit D. GM's gasoline engines (2016–2025) and 2018 diesels use it as the only code for this circuit (4.875–5.125 V, lamp in the first trip); the 2014 6.6 L LML used 4.6 V or less for 1 s with two trips. Saab's 9-3 (2012) also reports it.
P06A3 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor1 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P06A3
- Check engine light
- Several sensor codes at once (pedal, throttle, pressure)
- Electronic throttle limp mode, reduced power
- Possibly starting problems
Common causes of P06A3
- Most likelyShort in the wire or sensor of a connected sensor
- PossibleChafing or water in harness or connector
- PossibleA connected sensor faulty internally
- Less likelyModule internal voltage regulator
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Sensor reference voltage circuitSensor wiringEngine control module
What each part of P06A3 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 6 | Area: computer (engine control module) and output circuits. |
| A3 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P06A3 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P06A3
What does P06A3 mean?
P06A3 means "Sensor Reference Voltage D Circuit/Open". The engine module feeds sensors from several regulated 5 V reference circuits; a short at one sensor pulls the whole circuit down, so all its sensors report at once – unplug them one by one to find the culprit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P06A3?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P06A3 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P06A3 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P06A3 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P06A3 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 1 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P06A3 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.