P06FE

What it means

P06FE is a generic code meaning the engine control unit judged the diesel intake air flow control system to be performing outside expectations during a cold start. The control unit compared the commanded position or air flow of the intake air control device with the feedback or measured air flow and found they did not agree. The exact device (for example an intake air throttle or similar flap) and the test conditions depend on the vehicle and engine.

Symptoms

• Engine warning light on
• Rough or unstable idle after a cold start
• Hard starting or extended cranking when cold
• Excess white or grey smoke on a cold start
• Poor throttle response or reduced power until warm
• Engine may enter limp mode in some cases

Possible causes

• Intake air control flap or throttle valve sticking or clogged with soot and oil depositslikely
• Faulty intake air control actuator or its position feedback sensorlikely
• Wiring or connector fault (corrosion, chafing, poor terminal contact) in the actuator or sensor circuitpossible
• Mass air flow or intake pressure sensor giving inaccurate readingspossible
• Air leak, split intake hose or blocked air filter or intake duct affecting measured air flowpossible
• Low battery voltage or weak supply during cold cranking upsetting actuator operationrare
• Faulty control unit or outdated calibration where the manufacturer has issued a known correctionrare

How to diagnose

1. Read all stored and pending codes and note freeze frame data, especially coolant temperature, intake air temperature and battery voltage at the time of the fault
2. Check for related codes covering air flow, boost pressure, throttle or actuator circuits and deal with those first
3. Visually inspect the air filter, intake ducting, hoses and clamps for blockages, splits and leaks
4. Inspect the actuator and sensor wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, moisture and loose pins
5. Check battery condition and charging voltage, particularly during cranking
6. Compare live data for commanded versus actual position and measured air flow on a cold engine, then command the actuator and watch it move smoothly through its full range
7. Remove and inspect the flap or valve for sticking, carbon build-up or mechanical damage, following the manufacturer's procedure for your model
8. Check for any applicable manufacturer service bulletins or calibration updates for your engine

How to fix

• Clean a sooty or sticking intake flap or valve if the manufacturer permits it, or replace it if it is worn or damaged
• Replace a faulty actuator or position sensor and carry out any required adaptation or learning procedure
• Repair or replace damaged wiring, terminals or connectors
• Replace an inaccurate air flow or pressure sensor once testing confirms it is at fault
• Repair intake leaks and replace a blocked air filter or damaged ducting
• Update the control unit calibration only where an outdated or faulty calibration is a documented cause

Can I keep driving?

Nearby codes

• P06FDGenericGlow Plug Control Module 2 to PCM Communication Circuit Range/Performance
• P06FFGenericEconomy Mode Lamp Control Circuit