P06CA Code - Cylinder 6 Glow Plug Incorrect
Quick Answer
n the diesel engine, air alone is compressed in the cylinder. Common causes include Faulty cylinder #1 glow plug, Cylinder #1 glow plug harness is open or shorted, Cylinder #1 glow plug 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
- P06CA indicates Cylinder 6 Glow Plug Incorrect.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty cylinder #1 glow plug, Cylinder #1 glow plug harness is open or shorted, Cylinder #1 glow plug 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.
Code P06CA Description
Control of the glow plugs is accomplished by the glow plug control module. The nominal voltage for the glow plugs is 5.4 volts. When the ignition is turned On, the glow plug control module applies 7.2 V for 2.2 s, then 5.7 V for 0.8 s, and then 5.4 V until 1200°C (2192°F) is reached. The maximum voltage of the system is 10 V. While the engine is running the voltage will vary between 4.7 - 10 V when in closed loop control to maintain a glow plug temperature that ranges from 1150° - 1180°C (2102° - 2156°F). The temperature and the power consumption are controlled between the Engine Control Module (ECM) and the glow plug control module within a wide range to suit the engine's pre-heating requirements. Each glow plug is energized individually. This capability yields more optimum heat times for the glow plugs, thus pre - glow times can be kept to a minimum for a short wait to crank times and maximum glow plug durability. A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the Glow Plug resistance is not within a calibrated range.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P06CA?
- Faulty cylinder #1 glow plug
- Cylinder #1 glow plug harness is open or shorted
- Cylinder #1 glow plug circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Glow Plug Control Module
How to Fix the DTC P06CA?
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 P06CA 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 P06CA code?
Need more information on how to fix the P06CA code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P06CA code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- P06CA Chevrolet — Cylinder 6 Glow Plug Incorrect
- P06CA Ford — Cylinder 6 Glow Plug Incorrect
- P06CA GMC — Cylinder 6 Glow Plug Incorrect
Frequently Asked Questions about P06CA Code
1. What does the OBDII code P06CA mean?
P06CA indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected an issue with the glow plug circuit in cylinder 6, such as an incorrect resistance or failure to operate properly.
2. What are the common symptoms of the P06CA code?
Symptoms may include difficulty starting the engine in cold weather, reduced engine performance, a rough idle, and the check engine light being illuminated.
3. What causes the P06CA code to appear?
Common causes include a faulty glow plug in cylinder 6, damaged wiring or connectors in the glow plug circuit, a malfunctioning glow plug control module, or an ECM issue.
4. How is the P06CA code diagnosed?
A mechanic will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the glow plug and its wiring, test the glow plug with a multimeter, and check the operation of the glow plug control module.
5. Can I drive with the P06CA code active?
While it might be possible to drive under normal conditions, starting the engine in cold weather could become difficult, and ignoring the code may lead to further engine issues over time.
6. How do I fix the P06CA code?
Repairs typically involve replacing the faulty glow plug, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing the glow plug control module if necessary.
7. How much does it cost to fix the P06CA code?
The cost varies depending on the issue but generally ranges from $150 to $400, including parts and labor, with glow plug replacement being the most common repair.
8. Can a bad battery cause the P06CA code?
A weak or failing battery can contribute to glow plug issues by not supplying adequate power, but it is not the most common cause of this code.
9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P06CA code?
Tools may include an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to test electrical resistance, and basic hand tools for inspecting and replacing components.
10. Will clearing the code fix the P06CA issue?
Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P06CA OBDII Code
Code P06CA comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
