P0606 on 2013-2015 Dodge Charger: Internal Processor Fault Causes & Fixes

What's Unique About the 2013-2015 Dodge CHARGER

What makes the 2013-2015 Dodge Charger unique regarding code P0606 is that Chrysler (now Stellantis) issued numerous Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) acknowledging the problem. These TSBs often point to a software anomaly rather than an immediate hardware failure. This means a trip to the dealer for a PCM software update (reflash) is the most likely and official first step, potentially saving hundreds or thousands of dollars over an unnecessary PCM replacement. The TSBs explicitly state to reprogram the PCM before considering replacement.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Red electronic throttle control (ETC) or "lightning bolt" light may illuminate
• Vehicle may not start or may crank but not fire
• Engine may stall unexpectedly while driving or at idle
• Reduced engine power or vehicle entering "limp mode"
• Erratic or harsh automatic transmission shifting
• Multiple other warning lights (ABS, Traction Control) may illuminate simultaneously
• Cruise control may become inoperative or behave erratically
• Unusual engine surging or bucking, especially when coming to a stop

Most Likely Causes

1. PCM Software Anomaly 🔴 High Probability Multiple manufacturer TSBs (e.g., #18-084-16, #18-088-16) specifically call out a software glitch as the cause, instructing technicians to reprogram the PCM with the latest software before replacing it.
   How to confirm: A Dodge dealership or a qualified shop with access to Mopar's wiTECH diagnostic tool can check the current software calibration ID against the latest version available in the TSBs. This is the definitive first step.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming (flashing) the PCM with updated manufacturer software. This typically costs between $100 and $350 at a dealership.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Failed Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🟡 Medium Probability If a software update does not resolve the code, the internal processor of the PCM has likely failed, which is the default meaning of the code. 🎬 Watch: Understanding the causes and fixes for the P0606 code This is a diagnosis by exclusion after the software and wiring are confirmed to be good.
   How to confirm: This is diagnosed after a reflash fails to solve the problem or the code returns immediately. All power and ground circuits to the PCM must be tested and verified as good before condemning the module.
   Typical fix: Replacement of the PCM, which must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN and options.
   Est. part cost: $250-$800
3. Poor Power or Ground Supply to PCM ⚪ Low Probability Corrosion or loose connections at battery terminals or chassis grounds can cause voltage fluctuations that confuse the PCM, triggering a false P0606. While not specific to the Charger, it's a common issue in all modern cars.
   How to confirm: Use a multimeter to test for stable battery voltage (12.6V+ engine off, 13.5-14.5V running) at the PCM power pins. Visually inspect and load test the main PCM ground connections, which are often located on the engine block, firewall, or inner fender.
   Typical fix: Cleaning or tightening corroded or loose battery terminals, ground straps, or repairing the specific power/ground wire in the harness.
   Est. part cost: $5-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Charging System Fault: A failing alternator can produce voltage spikes or drops, which can confuse the PCM and trigger a false P0606 code. Before condemning the PCM, it's wise to have the battery and alternator professionally tested.
• Wiring Harness Issues: While less common, a short or open in the wiring harness connected to the PCM can cause this code. This is usually diagnosed after all other common causes have been ruled out.
• Aftermarket Tuning: Installing an aftermarket engine tune can sometimes cause conflicts with the PCM's internal self-checks, leading to a P0606 code. If the vehicle has been tuned, reverting to the stock factory tune may resolve the issue.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for any applicable TSBs for your vehicle's VIN. This is the most critical first step for this specific issue.
2. Verify battery health and charging system operation. Ensure voltage is stable and within the 13.5-14.5V range when the engine is running. A weak battery or failing alternator can trigger this code.
3. Inspect the main engine and chassis ground straps for tightness and corrosion. On these vehicles, key grounds are on the firewall, engine block, and near the battery in the trunk.
4. Inspect the PCM connectors and nearby wiring for any signs of corrosion, damage, or loose pins. The PCM is typically located in the engine bay.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to removing your Charger's PCM
5. If a TSB applies, have a Dodge dealer or qualified shop perform the PCM software update using a wiTECH tool. Ensure they maintain stable battery voltage during the flash process.
6. If the code persists after the software update and all wiring/power checks are good, the PCM is the likely point of failure and should be replaced.
7. The new PCM must be programmed to the vehicle's VIN and specific configuration to ensure all systems function correctly.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (OEM #Varies by VIN (e.g., 68171340AE, 68171333, 68171345AB, 68171308AA for 2013 3.6L models)) — If a software update doesn't fix the issue, the PCM's internal hardware has failed. This is the ultimate fix for a persistent P0606 code.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (OEM), Cardone (Remanufactured), Flagship One (Remanufactured)
  OEM price range: $680-$820
  Aftermarket price range: $160-$400

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U0140 — This code means 'Lost Communication With Body Control Module'. The faulty PCM processor can disrupt communication on the vehicle's network, causing this code to appear. This is cited in TSBs #18-086-15 REV A and #18-088-16 REV. A.
• P0300 — This is a 'Multiple Cylinder Misfire' code. A failing PCM can't properly control ignition timing or fuel injection, leading to misfires. This is cited in TSBs #1807320 and #18-084-16.
• P0335 — This indicates a 'Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit' fault. The PCM may be unable to correctly process the signal from a good sensor, leading to this code. This is cited in TSB #1808816.
• P1621 / P1622 — These codes relate to 'O2 Sensor Reference Voltage'. A faulty PCM can send incorrect voltage to, or misinterpret signals from, the oxygen sensors. This is cited in TSBs #1807320 and #18-084-16.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• Bulletin #1807320: Notes P0606 along with various misfire and O2 sensor codes for 2015 models, suggesting a PCM reflash.
• Bulletin #1808816: Links P0606 with crankshaft sensor and internal timer codes for 2014 models, pointing to a PCM software update.
• Bulletin #18-084-16: Similar to the 2015 TSB, lists P0606 with misfire and O2 sensor codes for 2013 5.7L models and platform mates, with the fix being a PCM reprogram.
• Bulletin #18-086-15 REV A: Cites P0606 appearing with U0140 (Lost Communication With BCM) for 2013 models.
• Bulletin #18-088-16 REV. A: Connects P0606 with U0140 and an EVAP code for 2014 models.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A significant number of 2013-2015 Chargers are subject to TSBs that address code P0606 with a software update. Ignoring this and replacing the PCM first is a common and costly mistake.
• The code often appears with a cluster of other DTCs related to sensors and communication modules, which can be misleading. The P0606 code should be treated as the root cause until proven otherwise.
• Owner experiences confirm that a dealer reflash is the most common successful repair. One owner on a forum noted their truck surged and acted erratically until a reflash was performed, though the P0606 code returned, indicating a deeper issue in their case.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• PCM Power and Ground Circuit Verification — expected: Stable battery voltage (approx. 12.6V engine off, 13.5-14.5V engine running) at the specified PCM power supply pins. Resistance between ground pins and a known good chassis ground should be less than 0.1 ohms.. Failure: Voltage readings that are low, unstable, or absent, or high resistance on ground circuits, indicate a wiring or power supply issue, not necessarily a failed PCM.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH 2.0: Flash ECU / Reprogram PCM — This is the primary step, as directed by multiple TSBs, to fix software anomalies causing P0606 before replacing hardware. It updates the PCM with the latest manufacturer calibration.
• wiTECH 2.0: Write VIN — This function is mandatory after installing a new or replacement PCM. The vehicle will not start or operate correctly until the correct VIN is programmed into the module.
• wiTECH 2.0: Check PCM Odometer — After installing a new PCM, this function is used to manually enter the vehicle's mileage from the cluster into the new module to ensure system consistency.
• wiTECH 2.0: Learn ETC (Electronic Throttle Control) — After a PCM replacement or reflash, this procedure recalibrates the electronic throttle body to the new PCM, ensuring proper throttle response. It typically involves following on-screen prompts to press and release the accelerator pedal.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• PCM Location — Typically located in the engine compartment, on the passenger's side (right side) near the strut tower, often under a protective shield.. Knowing the physical location is essential for visual inspection of connectors and wiring for corrosion or damage, and for accessing it for testing or replacement.
• G101 — Right front of the engine compartment.. This is a major engine compartment ground point. A loose or corroded connection here can disrupt power supply to multiple components, including the PCM, potentially causing a P0606.
• Engine Ground Straps — Various locations, including straps from the engine block/cylinder head to the chassis/firewall. One key ground strap attaches at the head.. These straps provide the main ground path for the engine and its components, including the PCM. A missing, loose, or corroded strap can cause unstable voltage and trigger internal processor faults.
• PCM Connectors — Multiple large connectors that plug directly into the PCM module.. These are the direct interface for all power, ground, and data signals. Verifying that these are clean, secure, and free of pin damage is a critical diagnostic step before condemning the PCM.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 05035767AA, 05150696AC, 68171300AA → Multiple revisions exist, such as ending in AB, AC, AD, AE, AF. For example, 68171300AF. — Updates to address hardware or software issues.
  Heads up: It is critical to match the part number or a compatible superseded number to the vehicle's VIN and hardware configuration (e.g., engine, transmission). Using an incorrect part number, even if it physically fits, can lead to a no-start condition or system malfunctions.