Powertrain, generic · Computer and auxiliary outputs

P06DB Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Low

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

A switchable or variable oil pump saves fuel by lowering its output at part load; a solenoid valve sets the stage. GM and Ford design it so the pump runs at full output, i.e. high pressure, when the valve is unpowered – the safe default – and at the low stage when powered. P06DB means the control wire behind the valve is shorted to ground. With a low-side driver the valve is then powered all the time, so the pump stays at the low stage even at high load and speed. That endangers the engine, so GM flags a short below 0.5 Ω after just one trip, unlike open circuit and short to positive. GM checks the low-side driver at 11 V or more relay voltage over 40 of 50 samples (100 ms); Ford's smart driver reports output faults after 5 s with the battery at 11 V or more. A short to positive is P06DC, a pump stuck at low pressure without a circuit fault P06DE.

Likely causes

Control wire chafing against ground (engine block, oil pan)
Control valve shorted internally
Oil or moisture in the connector
Engine module driver stage

Symptoms

  • Check engine light at once (GM after one trip)
  • Low oil pressure at high engine speed, possibly oil pressure warning
  • Possibly reduced power

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€60–450
Time0.5–3 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

oil pump control valveoil pump control circuitengine control module

Related codes

P06DAP06DCP06DEP0524P0521

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, fordservicecontent.com, static.nhtsa.gov, patents.google.com.