What is the P068A fault number? What is the explanation for the ECM/PCM Power Relay De-energized Performance – Too Early failure? How can you fix the P068A fault code What are the symptoms and causes for the P068A fault?
What is the P068A fault code? What does it signify?
A power relay draws positive current from the battery to power the engine control module or powertrain controller module (PCM). If the fault code is P068A, it means that the relay is failing to supply voltage to the ECM/PCM. The current is cut off sooner or slower than it should.
ECM/PCM control modules come with capacitors that have different roles. Some capacitors are used to filter currents and others store energy. Other capacitors may continue to power circuits even after the control module is turned off.
The relay is charged with the current from the capacitors when the driver switches off the ignition switch. A sudden power surge can damage the electrical components and corrupt the software of the module. It can also cause complete erases the programming. To prevent potential module damage and voltage spikes, the PCM must slowly de-energize power relay in controlled and gradual fashion.
PCM relays typically have a five wire design. Two of these wires serve to supply ground and battery voltage. The third circuit switch signal is used for powering the fourth circuit PCM. The control module uses the fifth conductor to monitor the power relay current, particularly during critical seconds after the ignition switch signal is shut off. The PCM calculates both the current cut off time and the rate of current after the driver closes down the ignition. The P068A fault code will be set if the PCM detects that current is being cut off earlier than necessary.
Note: Depending on which vehicle manufacturer you are using, P068A might have a different definition. Refer to the relevant repair manual or database for the vehicle to see a complete description of the code.
The P068A fault code can affect vehicles of all makes and models, including but not limited to: Ford, Mercedes, Fiat. Audi. Alfa Romeo. Opel. Chrysler.
What causes the P068A fault code?
Below are some reasons to set fault code P068A:
- – ECM/PCM power relay defect
- – Incorrect use of relay
- – Damaged wires and loose or rusty connectors. Open or short circuit issues
- – A defective ignition switch
- – A blown fuse
- A bad charging system or battery can lead to abnormally high system voltages or very low system voltages
- – Defective ECM/PCM (rarely)
What are the symptoms for P068A Malfunction code?
You may experience the following symptoms if your vehicle has a P068A code:
- – Continuous flashing/flashing of the checkengine light
- – Engine running very hard or not at all
- – Diverse drivability problems
- – Other fault codes can be set depending on the module affected
- – Vehicle. This can include idling problems, misfires and increased fuel consumption.
How to Fix the P068A Fault Code
There are a few repairs that could resolve the P068A fault codes:
- Repair or replacement of damaged or rusted electrical wiring and its associated connectors
- – Replacing damaged blown fuses
- – Repair of shorted or loose connections
- – Fully charge your battery
- Repair of damaged or loose battery cables
- – Replacing the damaged ECM/PCM relay
- Repair of malfunctions in the ignition switch
- – Replacing the ECM/PCM that is not working
How Serious Is the P068A Fault code?
A P068A fault code is serious and should immediately be addressed. This could cause the vehicle to not start or other drivability problems.
