P060F
Internal Control Module Coolant Temperature Performance.
- Generic
- Powertrain
- Generic code
- Medium severity
How this code is built
- P
- SystemPowertrain
- 0
- Defined bySAE, the same on every car
- 6
- AreaComputer and output circuits
- 0F
- FaultThe specific fault in that area
What it means
P060F is a generic code meaning the engine or powertrain control module has found a performance problem with its own internal coolant temperature monitoring. The module compares the reading from its internal temperature sensing, or the coolant-cooled control module circuit, against expected values and has seen a reading that is implausible or out of range. The exact way this is tested and which modules use coolant cooling for the electronics varies by manufacturer and model.
Symptoms
- Engine warning light on
- Reduced engine power or limp mode in some cases
- Cooling fan running more than normal or at constant high speed
- Poor or erratic engine running
- Other control module or communication fault codes stored alongside
- Intermittent hesitation or starting problems
Possible causes
- Fault in the control module's internal temperature sensing or internal circuitrylikely
- Low coolant level or air trapped in a cooling circuit that serves the control modulepossible
- Wiring or connector faults, corrosion or poor earth connections at the control modulepossible
- Low or unstable supply voltage from a weak battery or charging faultpossible
- Cooling system fault such as a failed pump, blocked passage or thermostat issue causing a genuine overtemperaturepossible
- Outdated or faulty control module software calibration where a manufacturer update is known to address itrare
- Water ingress or physical damage to the control modulerare
How to diagnose
- Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting engine temperature, voltage and load when the fault set, and look for related cooling, voltage or communication codes
- Check the coolant level and condition and look for leaks, then compare the live coolant temperature reading with the actual engine temperature
- Test the battery and charging system to confirm stable supply voltage
- Inspect the control module connectors, wiring and earth points for corrosion, moisture, chafing or looseness
- Check that the cooling fans, water pump and thermostat operate correctly and that the engine reaches and holds normal temperature
- Where the model has a coolant-cooled control module, check the circuit for airlocks, blockages and correct flow, following the manufacturer's procedure
- Clear the code, road test and recheck whether it returns and under what conditions
- Check for applicable software updates or technical service bulletins for the specific model and engine
How to fix
- Top up and bleed the cooling system correctly and repair any leaks
- Repair or replace damaged wiring, connectors or earth connections
- Repair the battery or charging system fault
- Repair the cooling system fault such as the pump, thermostat or fan found during testing
- Update the control module software if a relevant update is available for the known fault
- Replace and program the control module only after other causes are ruled out and its fault is confirmed
Can I keep driving?
The car can usually be driven carefully for a short time, but get it checked soon. If the temperature gauge rises, a coolant warning appears or the car goes into limp mode, stop and have it inspected to avoid engine damage.
Guide written by AI from the code's definition. Confirm with a diagnosis before replacing parts.
