AutoCodes – Generic – P0686

P0686 Code - Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The powertrain relay is a normally open relay. Common causes include Weak battery, Low voltage while cranking, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) power relay. 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: P0686 indicates Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Weak battery, Low voltage while cranking, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) power relay.
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 34,587

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 18, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0686 Description

The powertrain relay is a normally open relay. The relay armature is held in the open position by spring tension. Battery positive voltage is supplied directly to the relay coil and the armature contact at all times. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies the ground path to the relay coil control circuit via an internal integrated circuit called an Output Driver Module (ODM). The ODM output control is configured to operate as a low side driver for the powertrain relay. The ODM for the powertrain relay also incorporates a fault detection circuit, which is continuously monitored by the ECM. When the ECM commands the powertrain relay ON, ignition 1 voltage is supplied to the ECM, and to several additional circuits.

OBDII Code P0686 - Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0686 Code - Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0686?

Weak battery
Low voltage while cranking
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) power relay
ECM power relay harness is open or shorted
ECM power relay circuit poor electrical connection
Blown ECM fuse
Faulty ECM

How to Fix the DTC P0686?

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 P0686 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 P0686 code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P0686 Audi — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 BMW — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Buick — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Cadillac — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Chevrolet — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Chrysler — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Dodge — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Ford — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 GMC — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Isuzu — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Jeep — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Lincoln — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Mercury — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 MINI — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Pontiac — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Saturn — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Suzuki — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low
P0686 Volkswagen — Engine Control Module Power Relay Control Circuit Low

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.