Powertrain, generic · Computer and auxiliary outputs

P06DC Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit High

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modeNo

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. P06DC means the control wire is shorted to positive: the low-side driver can no longer pull it to ground, so the valve stays unpowered and the pump at high pressure – the safe state. GM checks this with the driver on and flags a short below 0.5 Ω after two trips. 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. Apart from slightly higher consumption there are usually no symptoms. An open circuit is P06DA, a short to ground P06DB.

Likely causes

Control wire shorted to positive
Valve coil shorted (looks like a short to positive at the driver)
Engine module

Symptoms

  • Check engine light after two trips
  • Usually no noticeable symptom, oil pressure permanently high
  • Slightly higher fuel consumption

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

P06DAP06DBP06DDP0521

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