PCM error code P0601

PVTDEAR

MEMBER
2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO
125,000 MILES

Hey CarPros, I just recently purchased this truck. The truck once I start it it shuts off directly after. After trying to start the car a few times it will stay on long enough for me to clear the error code. Once I clear the code the car runs fine all day. After letting the car sit over night the code always comes back the next day. I noticed when the truck is cold it shuts off even faster. Not sure if I should just take it to the dealer to have it re-flashed or buy a used flashed PCM or if there are some other suggestions or tests I can do? Please help.

5 Replies

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,963 POSTS

First thing would be to check the battery, a low battery voltage can set this code as well. If the battery is good, clean and check the connections and check all of the fuses for corrosion. If those are all okay then you may want to remove the battery negative. Remove the PCM and check for corrosion/dirt/water in the connectors. Then reconnect it and see if the error is still there.
If it still comes back then you likely have a failing PCM. Re-flashing it will not repair it as your description of temperature making a difference makes it sound like the issue is mechanical, like a bad solder joint or poor pin fitment, or voltage related as colder temps=less battery voltage and any poor connection makes it worse.

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Saturday, December 30th, 2017 AT 7:59 AM

PVTDEAR

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you for responding and sharing your knowledge. I will try all your recommendations.

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Saturday, December 30th, 2017 AT 11:18 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,883 POSTS

Steve W. Is one of our best! Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.

Cheers, Ken

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Monday, January 1st, 2018 AT 2:03 PM

PVTDEAR

MEMBER
3 POSTS

So far no luck.I disconnected the PMC and cleaned the connections well.I have a new battery and new terminals.I checked my ground and it is secure. The only thing I still need to check is each individual fuse in my fuse box. But I still receive the error code p0601 I believe I will need to purchase a new pcm.

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Wednesday, January 3rd, 2018 AT 2:22 PM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,963 POSTS

Unfortunately that may be the case. I try to eliminate any external issues first as I've seen bad grounds and poor connections cause a host of problems.