AutoCodes – Ford – P0642 Ford

P0642 Ford Code - Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The control module has 2 internal 5-volt reference buses called "5-volt reference 1" and"5-volt reference 2". Common causes include Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM), ECM harness is open or shorted, ECM 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
P0642 Ford indicates Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM), ECM harness is open or shorted, ECM 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 71,859
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 01, 2019
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Code P0642 Ford Description

The control module has 2 internal 5-volt reference buses called "5-volt reference 1" and"5-volt reference 2". Each reference bus provided 5-volt reference circuit for more than one sensor. Therefore, a fault condition on one 5-volt reference circuit will affect the other 5-volt reference circuits connected to the reference bus. The control module monitors the voltage on the 5-volt reference buses.
OBDII Code P0642 Ford - Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com
P0642 Ford Code - Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit Low

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0642 Ford?

  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
  • ECM harness is open or shorted
  • ECM circuit poor electrical connection
  • Shorted sensor on 5 volt circuit

How to Fix the DTC P0642 Ford?

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 P0642 Ford 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 P0642 Ford code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0642 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0642 Ford code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Ford Models

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 P0642 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0642 in a Ford vehicle?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, and potential stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P0642 Ford mean?

- The code indicates a malfunction in the Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit, specifically that the voltage is too low.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0642 in a Ford?

- Common causes include a faulty sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a failing PCM (Powertrain Control Module), or a short circuit.

4. How can I diagnose the Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit Low issue?

- To diagnose the problem, you may need to use a multimeter to check the voltage at the sensor, inspect the wiring for damage, and perform a thorough visual inspection.

5. What are the repair tips for fixing OBDII code P0642 in a Ford vehicle?

- Repair tips may include replacing the faulty sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections, and resetting the trouble code with an OBDII scanner.

6. Can driving with OBDII code P0642 cause further damage to the vehicle?

- Continuing to drive with this code may lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to other components over time if left unresolved.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0642 in a Ford?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve parts and labor costs ranging from $100 to $300 or more.

8. Can I clear the OBDII code P0642 in a Ford without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is recommended to address the root cause to prevent recurring issues and ensure optimal vehicle performance.

9. Is OBDII code P0642 a common problem in Ford vehicles?

- Yes, Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit Low issues leading to code P0642 are relatively common in Ford vehicles, particularly in older models or those with high mileage.

10. How urgent is it to address OBDII code P0642 in a Ford vehicle?

- It is advisable to address the issue promptly to prevent further complications and ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle's sensors and engine control systems.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0642 Ford OBDII Code

  • My car hyindai sonata this is out the cidep0642 i change already ECM AND TROTTOLE BODY STILL NO ACCELARETION JUST ONLY 2500 RPM. NOT UP NOT DOWN pls help me what i do to my car.

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