P06A5 code meaning
Sensor Reference Voltage D Circuit High
Powertrain system Generic code P06xx codes Check engine light
What P06A5 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. P06A5 means reference D is too high – a short to voltage, for example via a sensor signal wire. No manufacturer document available to us uses P06A5 itself: GM and Saab report circuit D faults collectively as P06A3. The description follows circuits A–C.
P06A5 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 P06A5
- Check engine light
- Several sensor codes at once (pedal, throttle, pressure)
- Electronic throttle limp mode, reduced power
- Possibly starting problems
Common causes of P06A5
- Most likelyReference or sensor signal wire shorted to 12 V
- 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 P06A5 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. |
| A5 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P06A5 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 P06A5
What does P06A5 mean?
P06A5 means "Sensor Reference Voltage D Circuit High". 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 P06A5?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P06A5 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P06A5 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P06A5 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 P06A5 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 1 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P06A5 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.