P06F5 code meaning
Glow Plug Control Module 2
Powertrain system Generic code P06xx codes Check engine light
What P06F5 means
SAE J2012 provides a complete code family for a second glow plug control module, mirroring module 1 code for code. P06F5 is the general or internal fault of module 2, the counterpart of P064C. For module 1, GM's L5P groups driver faults (under 3.2 A with 0 V at the plug for 3.5 s) and a ROM checksum error under P064C, after two trips; Ford's 2023 Power Stroke lists P064C among the module checks with detection in about 1 s. No manufacturer document available to us uses a second glow module – Ford's and GM's V8 diesels drive all eight plugs from one; the code suits systems with one module per cylinder bank. The description follows module 1 (P064C). The plugs fed by module 2 then heat poorly or not at all.
P06F5 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P06F5
- Check engine light, possibly glow plug/wait-to-start lamp
- Hard cold start, long cranking in frost
- Rough cold idle and white smoke, often one cylinder bank only
- Usually no symptoms when warm
Common causes of P06F5
- Most likelyGlow plug control module 2 faulty internally
- PossiblePoor supply or ground of module 2
- Less likelyModule software or configuration
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Glow plug control module 2Module power supplyModule ground
What each part of P06F5 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. |
| F5 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P06F5 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 P06F5
What does P06F5 mean?
P06F5 means "Glow Plug Control Module 2". SAE J2012 provides a complete code family for a second glow plug control module, mirroring module 1 code for code. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P06F5?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P06F5 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P06F5 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 P06F5 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P06F5 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.