P06AD code meaning
Control Module Internal Temperature Sensor B Circuit Low
Powertrain system Generic code P06xx codes Check engine light
What P06AD means
Control modules can carry a second internal temperature sensor (B). In GM's 6T70/6T75 and related automatics, sensor A measures the circuit board (substrate) temperature, sensor B the 'power-up temperature' used as a reference and substitute; both sit inside the transmission module in the valve body, so repairs mean module or valve body. P06AD means the sensor B signal is at its low end: GM converts it and treats −59 °C or less for 60 s as a fault, lamp after two trips. Unlike most temperature sensors, low here corresponds to an implausibly cold reading. The module then uses a substitute value.
P06AD at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P06AD
- Warning or check engine light
- Changed shift quality (substitute value)
- Implausible module temperature in the scan tool
Common causes of P06AD
- Most likelyTransmission module or valve body (internal sensor) faulty
- PossibleMoisture or fluid in the module electronics
- Less likelyModule supply or software
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission control moduleControl module internal temperature sensor
What each part of P06AD 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. |
| AD | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P06AD 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 P06AD
What does P06AD mean?
P06AD means "Control Module Internal Temperature Sensor B Circuit Low". Control modules can carry a second internal temperature sensor (B). It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P06AD?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P06AD the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P06AD fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P06AD 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 P06AD to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P06AD clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.