AutoCodes – Generic – C0690

C0690 Code - Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

Battery voltage for the strut actuators is supplied to the Electronic Suspension Control (ESC) module through the damper drive relay circuit. Common causes include Faulty Damper Control Relay, Damper Control Relay harness is open or shorted, Damper Control Relay circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: C0690 indicates Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Damper Control Relay, Damper Control Relay harness is open or shorted, Damper Control Relay circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 4,824

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 31, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C0690 Description

Battery voltage for the strut actuators is supplied to the Electronic Suspension Control (ESC) module through the damper drive relay circuit. The ESC module energizes the damper relay by opening and closing an internal ground for the damping relay coil control circuit. The ESC module monitors the damper drive relay circuit and each strut actuator high-side and low-side drive circuits for fault conditions.

OBDII Code C0690 - Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — C0690 Code - Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0690?

Faulty Damper Control Relay
Damper Control Relay harness is open or shorted
Damper Control Relay circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C0690?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C0690 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the C0690 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0690 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0690 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

C0690 Buick — Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction
C0690 Cadillac — Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction
C0690 Chevrolet — Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction
C0690 GMC — Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about C0690 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0690 (Damper Control Relay Circuit Malfunction)?

Symptoms may include issues with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, such as inconsistent temperature control or a complete failure of air distribution.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0690?

Potential causes of this code include a faulty damper control relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunctioning HVAC control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code C0690?

Diagnosis usually involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code, inspecting the damper control relay and related components for damage, and testing the circuit for continuity and proper voltage.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code C0690?

It is generally safe to drive your vehicle with this code, but you may experience discomfort due to HVAC system issues. It is recommended to address the problem promptly to avoid further damage.

5. How can I repair OBDII code C0690?

Repair options may include replacing the damper control relay, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the HVAC control module. Consult a professional technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code C0690 without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the root cause will only temporarily clear the error code. It is crucial to identify and resolve the malfunction to prevent the code from reoccurring.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C0690?

Repair costs can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, labor rates in your area, and the cost of parts. It is advisable to obtain quotes from different repair shops for an accurate estimate.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code C0690 at home?

Depending on your experience and access to tools, you may be able to address this code at home by following repair guides or tutorials. However, complex electrical issues may require professional assistance.

9. Will OBDII code C0690 cause my vehicle to fail an emissions test?

While this code is related to the HVAC system rather than emissions, some states may still flag it during an emissions test. It is best to resolve the issue before undergoing an emissions inspection.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code C0690 from occurring in the future?

To prevent this code, ensure regular maintenance of your vehicle's HVAC system, promptly address any HVAC-related issues, and avoid overloading electrical circuits in the vehicle.