What P061C means
Electronic throttle systems run a second, independent calculation on the same processor (level 2, at Ford 'IPC – independent plausibility check') that recomputes driver demand, permitted and actual torque and their inputs, and compares them with the main software.
How the engine computer detects it
P061C means the two internal engine speed calculations from the crankshaft signal disagree. GM's 6.6 L Duramax sets it at 400 rpm or more difference once the redundant speed is at least 600 rpm and the engine is synchronized, after 0.32 s, with the lamp after two trips; Ford's diesel also uses 400 rpm (5 s), Ford gasoline engines react within 1 s with the check engine light. Because speed is a base value of torque monitoring, limp mode follows. A disturbed crankshaft signal can make both paths react differently, so fix P0335–P0339 first.
Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages
Symptoms
- Check engine, wrench or service lamp
- Reduced power or RPM limit
- Stumbling or brief misfires with a disturbed signal
- Rarely stalling
Common causes
- Engine module software or calibration fault (update available) Most likely
- Disturbed crankshaft signal (sensor, reluctor, shielding, connector, interference) Possible
- Voltage dips, poor ground or supply at the module Possible
- Internal defect of the engine module Less likely
How to diagnose P061C
- Read every stored code with an OBD-II scanner. If misfire or fuel trim codes are there too, fix those first: they often cause this one.
- Inspect the parts involved: engine control module, crankshaft position sensor.
- Work through the causes above from most to least likely, cheapest checks first.
- Clear the code and drive a full drive cycle to confirm the repair held.
Reading the code
- P
- Powertrain
- 0
- Generic (SAE) code
- 6
- Computer and output circuits
- 1C
- Specific fault
Questions drivers ask
Can I drive with code P061C?
Drive gently and only as far as you need to. The engine computer may limit power to protect the engine, so avoid highways and heavy traffic until it's fixed. If the check engine light starts flashing, pull over.
Will my car pass an emissions inspection with P061C?
Probably not in states that test vehicles with an OBD-II scan: an emissions-related code that keeps the check engine light on is usually an automatic fail. Rules differ by state and county, so check yours.
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Repair costs are rough estimates for parts and labor and vary by vehicle and region.