P2610 ECM / PCM Internal Engine Off Timer

P2610 ECM / PCM Internal Engine Off Timer

Home »Codes P2600-P2699» P2610

OBD-II DTC Datasheet

ECM / PCM Internal Engine Shutdown Timer

What does this mean?

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles (Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Subaru, Hyundai, Dodge, Toyota, etc.). Although general, specific repair steps may differ depending on the brand / model.

When I come across a stored code P2610, it informs me that there was a malfunction in the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM) regarding the inability to determine if the engine was turned off; and in particular how long the engine has been turned off.

The engine controller, whether called the ECM or PCM, uses inputs from the engine to determine if the engine is running. The engine control indicators used for this include engine speed (crankshaft position sensor), fuel pressure sensor, and primary ignition system voltage. If the ECM / PCM cannot detect a signal from one of these (or any of a number of others) indicators indicating that the engine has been turned off, no voltage is detected when shifting (present only when the ignition key is in the on position), it may not recognize that the engine has been switched off.

The ECM / PCM's internal engine off timer is critical for monitoring ignition cycles, which help calculate fuel delivery and ignition timing, and gear shift patterns. If the ECM / PCM fails to declare engine OFF and start timing between ignition cycles, a P2610 code will be stored and the malfunction indicator lamp may illuminate. Typically, several ignition cycles (with failure) are required to illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp.

Symptoms and severity

Since so many underlying factors are affected by the performance of the ECM / PCM's internal engine shutdown timer, this code should be corrected with some degree of urgency.

Symptoms of a P2610 code may include:

• At first, there will most likely be no obvious symptoms.
• Reduced engine performance
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Symptoms of engine control may appear over time.

reasons

Possible reasons for setting this code:

• ECM / PCM programming errors
• Defective ECM / PCM
• Open or short circuit in wiring or connectors
• Defective crankshaft position (CPS) sensor or short circuit in CPS wiring

Diagnostic and repair procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your problem may be a known issue with a known manufacturer-released fix and could save you time and money while troubleshooting.

To diagnose a stored P2610 code, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt / ohmmeter (DVOM), and a trusted source of vehicle information (such as All Data DIY).

If one or more CPS codes are present, diagnose and correct them before attempting to diagnose a stored P2610.

Now it will be convenient for you to connect the scanner to the vehicle's diagnostic socket. Retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data and record this information; this can be useful especially if the P2610 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the P2610 is reset. If it is reset, reconnect the scanner and observe the CPS and RPM data using the data stream display. Focus on CPS and RPM readings with key on and engine off (KOEO). If the RPM reading shows anything other than 0, suspect a CPS malfunction or a shorted CPS wiring. If the CPS data and engine RPM appear to be normal, continue with the diagnostic process.

Use the DVOM to monitor the primary voltage of the ignition coil with the ignition off. If the primary voltage of the ignition coil remains above five volts, suspect a wiring short (to voltage) in this system. If voltage is 0, continue diagnostics.

Using the vehicle information source, determine the exact parameters used by the ECM/PCM to indicate that the engine has been turned off and the ignition cycle has ended. Once you've made this determination, use the DVOM to check all individual nets for related components. To prevent damage to the ECM/PCM, disable all associated controllers before testing circuit resistance with the DVOM. Repair or replace faulty circuits as needed and recheck the system. Be aware that a repair cannot be considered successful until the ECM/PCM is in Ready Mode. To do this, simply clear the codes (after repair) and drive the car as usual; if the PCM goes into ready mode, the repair was successful, and if the code is cleared, it is not.

If all system circuits are within specifications, suspect a faulty PCM or a PCM programming error.

Additional diagnostic notes:

• Failure to follow code P2610 may damage the catalytic converter (among other things).
• Don't assume the PCM is to blame, system wiring faults are common.
• Use your vehicle information source to match service bulletins and / or reviews with code / codes and associated symptoms.

Related DTC discussions

• P2610 is set after two drive sessionsThe P2610 code is set after two engine starts on a 2004 Chevy Silverado K2500HD Duramax. Story: Failed to get the air conditioner to work on the facility vehicle. The dealer will troubleshoot the system by checking the wiring and sensors associated with the air conditioning system. Nothing bad was found. The ECM was the only component ... 
• Mazda Miada P2006 2610 model yearthe engine indicator light came on. Autozone Checker came with code P2610 - ECM/PCM Internal Eng off timer performance. I reset it and it didn't turn on right away. what should i do if this is the case... 
• P2610 Code Toyota CorollaToyota Corolla 2009, 1.8, Basic, with 25000 km mileage, shows the code P2610. The car has no symptoms. What happened? How to fix it. Expensive fix?…. 

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