P06DE code meaning
Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On
Powertrain system Generic code P06xx codes Check engine light
What P06DE means
A switchable oil pump changes its output via a solenoid valve; powered it runs at the low stage. To test it, the module switches the pump between stages (GM up to 15 times, with oil at 50–110 °C and 1350–2500 rpm, expecting more than 100 kPa difference) and watches the oil pressure sensor; Ford checks each switch-over of a two-stage pump within 1 s, or a variable pump over 10 s, from 30 s after start. P06DE is the counterpart of P06DD: the commanded high stage is not reached and the pressure stays below the threshold, as if the valve were stuck on. Too little oil pressure at high load endangers the engine, so GM sets it after just one trip; a Ford patent raises idle speed in this case. A short to ground on the control wire (P06DB) has the same effect electrically. An FCA bulletin for the 3.6 L V6 fixes false codes by software.
P06DE at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P06DE
- Check engine light at once
- Oil pressure warning at higher engine speed possible
- Possibly reduced power or raised idle
- Valvetrain or chain tensioner noise from lack of oil
Common causes of P06DE
- Most likelyControl valve stuck in the powered position
- PossibleLow oil level, diluted or sludged oil, aeration
- PossiblePump wear or internal leakage
- Less likelyEngine module software (FCA 3.6 L)
- Less likelyOil pressure sensor
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Oil pump control valveOil pumpOil pressure sensorEngine control module
What each part of P06DE 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. |
| DE | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P06DE 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 P06DE
What does P06DE mean?
P06DE means "Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On". A switchable oil pump changes its output via a solenoid valve; powered it runs at the low stage. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P06DE?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P06DE the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P06DE fail an emissions test?
P06DE is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P06DE to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P06DE clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.