EngineLightCodes
Powertrain code

P06DE Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On

Severity
Fix soon
Typical repair cost
$110–$3,850
Do it yourself
Shop job
Shop time
1–12 hours

A switchable oil pump changes its output via a solenoid valve; powered it runs at the low stage.

How the engine computer detects it

To test it, the module switches the pump between stages (GM up to 15 times, with oil at 50–110 °C (122–230 °F) and 1350–2500 rpm, expecting more than 100 kPa (15 psi) 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.

Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages

Symptoms

  • 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

  1. Control valve stuck in the powered position Most likely
  2. Low oil level, diluted or sludged oil, aeration Possible
  3. Pump wear or internal leakage Possible
  4. Engine module software (FCA 3.6 L) Less likely
  5. Oil pressure sensor Less likely

How to diagnose P06DE

  1. 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.
  2. Inspect the parts involved: oil pump control valve, oil pump, oil pressure sensor, engine control module.
  3. Work through the causes above from most to least likely, cheapest checks first.
  4. 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
DE
Specific fault

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with code P06DE?

Check the oil level before driving. This code can be a faulty sensor or control circuit, but you can't rule out real low oil pressure from the code alone. If the oil pressure warning light comes on, the engine starts ticking or knocking, or the oil is low, don't drive: have it towed.

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.