AutoCodesGeneric – P1AC6

P1AC6 Code - Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit

Quick Answer

The Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor circuits consist of an Engine Control Module (ECM) supplied 5-volt reference circuit, low reference circuit and an output signal circuit. Common causes include Faulty Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM), Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) harness is open or shorted, Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) 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
P1AC6 indicates Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM), Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) harness is open or shorted, Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) 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 2,860
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 01, 2020
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Code P1AC6 Description

The Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor circuits consist of an Engine Control Module (ECM) supplied 5-volt reference circuit, low reference circuit and an output signal circuit. The CKP sensor is an internally magnetic biased digital output integrated circuit sensing device. The sensor detects magnetic flux changes of the teeth and slots of a 58-tooth reluctor wheel on the crankshaft. Each tooth on the reluctor wheel is spaced at 60-tooth spacing, with 2 missing teeth for the reference gap. The CKP sensor produces an ON/OFF DC voltage of varying frequency, with 58 output pulses per crankshaft revolution. The frequency of the CKP sensor output depends on the velocity of the crankshaft. The CKP sensor sends a digital signal, which represents an image of the crankshaft reluctor wheel, to the ECM as each tooth on the wheel rotates past the CKP sensor. The ECM uses each CKP signal pulse to determine crankshaft speed and decodes the crankshaft reluctor wheel reference gap to identify crankshaft position. This information is then used to sequence the ignition timing and fuel injection events for the engine. The ECM also uses CKP sensor output information to determine the crankshaft relative position to the camshaft, to detect cylinder misfire, and to control the CMP actuator if equipped.
Motor Control Module (MCM) 1 is also connected to the CKP sensor signal and low reference circuits. The MCM uses the CKP sensor output information to determine engine crankshaft position to aid in smooth engine Auto-starts.
OBDII Code P1AC6 - Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P1AC6 Code - Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1AC6?

  • Faulty Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM)
  • Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) harness is open or shorted
  • Drive Motor Generator Power Inverter Control Module (PIM) circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P1AC6?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1AC6 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.

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Information for Specific Makes

  • P1AC6 Buick — Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit
  • P1AC6 Cadillac — Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit
  • P1AC6 Chevrolet — Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit
  • P1AC6 GMC — Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit
  • P1AC6 Saturn — Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit
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 P1AC6 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1AC6 mean?

P1AC6 indicates a problem with the Drive Motor 1 Control Module Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit, which affects the ability to monitor the crankshaft's position accurately.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P1AC6 code?

Symptoms may include reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, rough idling, stalling, or the vehicle not starting.

3. What causes the P1AC6 code to trigger?

Common causes include a faulty crankshaft position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or a malfunctioning Drive Motor 1 Control Module.

4. Can I drive my car with the P1AC6 code?

It’s not recommended to drive for extended periods with this code, as it can lead to further damage or reduced vehicle performance.

5. How is the P1AC6 code diagnosed?

A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the crankshaft position sensor, check for damaged wiring or connectors, and test the Drive Motor 1 Control Module.

6. How do you fix the P1AC6 code?

Repairs may involve replacing the crankshaft position sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the Drive Motor 1 Control Module.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P1AC6 code?

Costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on whether the issue is with the sensor, wiring, or control module.

8. Can a bad battery cause the P1AC6 code?

While uncommon, a weak or failing battery can sometimes cause electrical issues that may trigger the code.

9. How can I prevent the P1AC6 code from occurring?

Regular maintenance, inspecting wiring and connections, and using quality replacement parts can help prevent this code.

10. Will clearing the code fix the P1AC6 issue?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove the error, but if the underlying issue isn’t resolved, the code will return.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1AC6 OBDII Code

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