What is the P0648 fault number? What is the Immobilizer Lamp Control Circuit Malfunction? How can I fix the fault code P0648? What are the causes and symptoms of the P0648 error code?
What is the P0648 fault code? What does it signify?
A malfunction code P0648 indicates that the powertrain controller module (PCM), one of the supporting control units, detects a malfunction within the immobilizer lamp circuit control circuit.
The immobilizer light is located within the instrument cluster. It is designed to alert the driver if the immobilizer key has gone out of alignment or is not being recognized (lit). This light is also known “safety”
The PCM monitors the immobilizer lamp control system when the ignition is switched on. The immobilizer switch has a chip that can be recognized by the PCM as well as other control modules. This allows various systems, such as keyless entry or push-to-start, to remain operational. The controller runs self-tests every time the ignition switch is turned on. It also compares data from different controllers to verify that the system is working. The PCM or other modules will detect a fault in an immobilizer circuit and set the fault code P0648.
The following control modules will also detect the fault and trigger the code:
- – Body Control Module
- – Fuel injection control module
- – Alternative fuel control module
- – Turbo control module
- – Anti-lock brake controller module
- Anti-theft Module
- – Instrument cluster control module
- – Cruise control module
- – Traction control module
- Distance warning control module
- – Climate control module
The P0648 fault code can affect vehicles of all makes and models, including but not limited to Renault, Toyota, Fiat Mercedes-Benz, Jeeps, Suzuki, Hyundai, Ford, Mini Chrysler, Dodge, and Chrysler.
What causes the P0648 Fault code?
Here are some reasons why P0648 should be set:
- – Defective immobilizer bulb
- – Short or open circuit in the immobilizer lamp control circuit
- – Defective immobilizer key (fob) or dead battery
- – Broken, damaged, fused or broken wires, loose and rusty connections in the CAN bus wiring harness
- – Defective CAN bus
- – Broken wires or loose ground wires to one of our control modules
- – Reprogramming of PCM and other control modules that are defective or in need of repair
What are the symptoms for P0648 fault code?
You may experience the following symptoms if your vehicle has the code P0648:
- – Illumination for check engine lights
- – If the immobilizer lamp malfunction does not turn on, it might be blinking or constantly on.
- – Engine not running
- – Other related fault codes
How to Fix the P0648 Fault Code
There are several repairs that can resolve the P0648 fault code.
- – Replacing faulty components, wiring and connectors to the immobilizer control circuit.
- – Repair of or replacement of the damaged CAN bus harness
- – Repair or replacement ground wires
- – Replacing burst immobilizer lamps
- – Replacing an immobilizer switch battery
- – Replacing defective control modules
- – Reprogramming or replacing the PCM
How serious is the P0648 Fault code?
Fault codes relating to internal control modules must always be considered seriously. The P0648 code may cause communication problems between control modules and the computer management system (PCM). This code can cause your vehicle to stop functioning and you may be unable to continue driving. Early diagnosis is advised.
