ETC light flashing

FERNANDO.ALBA

MEMBER
2005 CHRYSLER 300
2.7L
V6
AUTOMATIC
262,624 MILES

So my car's etc light is constantly flashing and it is running rough, sometimes the car well just stop. It struggles to turn on, slow acceleration or doesn't accelerate, shakes really bad. I took it to a mechanic and he has the same car he switch out the throttle body with his and the problem still didn't go away. So he tested for codes and got the code P061A. He said he tried to delete the code but wouldn't let him so he suggested that my car needed a new computer.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,300 POSTS

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

Your mechanic may be right. Either the power control module (PCM) needs flashed or it is faulty. When the computer is flashed, it's basically to update or reinstall computer software. With that being said, I would try that before replacing the PCM.

I looked up the code for you so you could have a better understanding of what is required and possible causes. Take a look through it.

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2005 Chrysler 300 V6-2.7L VIN R
P061A
Vehicle ALL Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) Testing and Inspection P Code Charts P061A
P061A
P061A-ETC LEVEL 2 TORQUE PERFORMANCE

For a complete wiring diagram refer to: Electrical Diagrams

When Monitored
Throttle motor is powered.

Set Condition
When secondary software determines that the customer requested output is not being achieved by the engine for a period of time. ETC lamp will flash

Possible Causes
- PCM NEEDS TO BE PROGRAMMED
- PCM

Always perform the Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting procedure before proceeding.

Diagnostic Test
1. PROGRAM THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE

picture 1

NOTE: Check the engine for air/vacuum leaks and diagnose any Fuel System Lean/Rich as well as MAP Sensor DTCs before continuing.

Verify the PCM is at the latest calibration (flash level).

NOTE: An intermittent loss of power to the PCM without performing an ETC Relearn procedure may cause this DTC to set.

Flash the Powertrain Control Module per Service Information if any updates are available.
Start the engine.
Allow the engine to reach normal operating temperature.
Operate the accelerator pedal. (do not exceed 3500 rpm)
With a scan tool, read DTCs.

NOTE: Diagnose any other DTCs that may have set with the P061A.

Does this DTC reset by itself?
Yes >> Replace and reprogram the Powertrain Control Module per Service Information.
Perform POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. See: A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) > Verification Tests > Powertrain Verification Test
No >> Test Complete.
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Interestingly, one of the recommendations of the test is to confirm there is no fuel pressure issue as well as vacuum leaks as well as mass air flow sensor issues. With that in mind, they should be checked.

Here are a couple links that show how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Here are the specs for your vehicle's fuel pressure requirements:

Fuel System Pressure
400 kpa ±34 kpa (58 psi ± 5 psi)

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Okay, with all of that being said, yes the PCM may be bad. However, I recommend checking the things I mentioned as well as having the PCM re-flashed to see if anything is found or if the re-flash takes care of the problem. Re-flashing required specialized equipment, so I don't know if your mechanic can do it or not. Discuss the possibility of checking and flashing with him or her and see what is recommended.

I'm here if you have other questions or need help.

I hope this helps.
Joe

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