P061A

What it means

P061A is the generic code for an Internal Control Module Torque Performance fault. The engine control module runs a built-in check that compares the torque it has requested with the torque it calculates the engine is actually delivering, using inputs such as throttle position, airflow and engine speed. If the two disagree by more than the allowed amount, or the internal monitoring cannot confirm the figures, the code is stored. Exact monitoring strategy and thresholds vary by manufacturer and engine.

Symptoms

• Engine warning light on
• Car going into limp mode with reduced power
• Poor or delayed throttle response
• Rough or unstable idle
• Hesitation or surging under acceleration
• Possible stalling or hard starting

Possible causes

• Fault in the throttle body, throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal sensor giving implausible readingslikely
• Airflow or manifold pressure sensor fault, or an air leak after the airflow sensor, causing a mismatch between expected and actual loadlikely
• Wiring or connector problems, such as poor earths, corrosion or low supply voltage to the control module or sensorspossible
• Other engine faults such as misfires, fuel delivery problems or restricted exhaust reducing real torque below the requestpossible
• Outdated or faulty control module software calibration (only where the manufacturer has issued an update for this issue)rare
• Internal fault in the engine control module itselfrare

How to diagnose

1. Read all stored and pending codes and the freeze frame data, noting engine speed, load, throttle position and battery voltage when the code set
2. Check for other related codes (throttle, pedal, airflow, misfire, fuel) and diagnose those first, as they often cause this code
3. Test the battery condition and charging voltage, and inspect the control module and engine earth connections for corrosion or looseness
4. Inspect wiring and connectors to the throttle body, pedal sensor and airflow sensor, and look for damaged or chafed looms
5. Inspect the intake system for split hoses, loose clamps and leaks, and check for a dirty throttle body
6. Using live data, compare throttle and pedal position readings, airflow and manifold pressure against expected values at idle and under load
7. Check for misfires, fuel pressure problems and exhaust restriction if live data shows the engine is not delivering requested torque
8. Check for manufacturer software updates or technical bulletins for the specific model and engine, and consider module fault only after everything else is ruled out

How to fix

• Repair or replace damaged wiring, connectors or earth connections
• Clean or replace the throttle body, or replace a faulty throttle or pedal position sensor, then carry out any required adaption or relearn procedure
• Replace a faulty airflow or manifold pressure sensor and repair any intake air leaks
• Correct the underlying misfire, fuel supply or exhaust restriction problem
• Update the control module software where the manufacturer lists an outdated calibration as a known cause
• Repair or replace the control module only when it is confirmed faulty, with any necessary coding or programming

Can I keep driving?

Nearby codes

• P0619GenericAlternative Fuel Control Module RAM/ROM Error
• P061BGenericInternal Control Module Torque Calculation Performance