P2610 on 2013-2016 Dodge DART: PCM Timer Performance Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2013-2016 Dodge DART

For the 2013-2016 Dodge Dart, this code is very specifically addressed by manufacturer-issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). Unlike many other vehicles where P2610 might point to a variety of hardware failures, on the Dart, Dodge has acknowledged that outdated PCM software is a primary cause, especially on models with the 2.4L engine. These TSBs, such as #18-009-16 REV. C, indicate that a simple software reflash is often the complete and intended solution.

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.
• Vehicle may fail an emissions inspection.
• Potential for hard starting or rough idle, especially on a cold start.
• In rare cases, other drivability issues may eventually appear.
• Possible reduced fuel efficiency over time.

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated PCM Software 🔴 High Probability Multiple TSBs (#18-009-16 REV. B, #18-067-16, #18-058-16) were issued by the manufacturer specifically to address this code with a software update, particularly for vehicles with the 2.4L engine.
   How to confirm: A Dodge dealership or a qualified shop with a wiTECH scan tool can check the current software calibration ID against the latest version available in the TSBs. The TSBs apply to specific engine and model year combinations.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming (reflashing) the PCM to the latest software version. The dealer procedure takes approximately 0.2 labor hours.
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Weak or Failing Battery 🟡 Medium Probability The PCM's internal timer relies on a stable voltage supply to keep time when the engine is off. A weak battery can cause voltage drops that corrupt the timer's memory or prevent it from resetting properly.
   How to confirm: Test the battery voltage with a multimeter. A healthy battery should read approximately 12.4-12.6 volts with the engine off. Perform a load test to check its true health. Voltage should remain above 12.2V during cranking.
   Typical fix: Replace the vehicle's battery.
   Est. part cost: $150-$250
3. Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor ⚪ Low Probability TSBs #18-067-16 and #18-058-16 list P2610 alongside P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit). A failing sensor can send erratic signals, confusing the PCM about whether the engine is running or off, which can corrupt the off-timer logic. This is a known issue on the 2.4L MultiAir engine shared with other FCA vehicles.
   How to confirm: Scan for code P0335. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix code P0335 on the 2.4L engine. If present, diagnose the crankshaft position sensor circuit. This may involve checking the sensor's signal with an oscilloscope or simply replacing the sensor as it is a common failure item.
   Typical fix: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
   Est. part cost: $74-$131

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM): This should be the last resort after all other possibilities, especially a software update, have been exhausted. An internal hardware failure in the PCM's timer circuit can cause this code. Replacement can cost between $915 and $967.
• Poor PCM Power or Ground Connection: Corrosion or a loose connection at the PCM connectors or main ground points can interrupt power, 🎬 See how to fix common bad ground issues for free. causing the timer to reset or malfunction. This should be inspected before condemning the PCM.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for TSBs: The first step is to confirm if your vehicle's VIN and 2.4L engine are covered by TSBs like #18-009-16 REV. C. If so, a PCM software update is the most likely fix.
2. Test the Battery and Charging System: Before visiting a dealer, ensure the battery is fully charged and healthy. Test its voltage (should be above 12.4V engine off) and perform a load test. Check that the alternator is charging correctly (typically 13.5V-14.5V when running). A weak battery is a common cause and a simple fix.
3. Inspect Battery Terminals and Grounds: Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals and ensure all main power and ground connections to the chassis and engine block are clean and tight.
4. Scan for Other Codes: Check for related codes, especially P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor) or P1607 (PCM Internal Shutdown Timer Rationality). The presence of these codes strongly points towards the issues described in the TSBs.
5. Perform PCM Reflash: If TSBs apply and the battery/charging system is healthy, have a dealer or qualified shop perform the PCM software update. This typically costs between $150-$250 for labor.
6. Diagnose Crankshaft Sensor: If code P0335 is present and the reflash does not solve the issue, follow the diagnostic procedure for the crankshaft position sensor circuit. Given its low cost, many owners opt to replace it as a preventative measure.
7. Inspect PCM and Wiring: As a final step, if the code persists, inspect the PCM connectors for damage or corrosion and test the power and ground circuits directly at the module. If all else fails, the PCM itself may be faulty and require replacement.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update — This is the manufacturer-specified fix for a known software bug that causes code P2610 on this vehicle, as documented in multiple TSBs.
  OEM price range: $150-$250 (Labor for reflash)
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Crankshaft Position Sensor (OEM #5149167AF) — This sensor can fail and trigger P2610 as a related fault, often setting code P0335. It is mentioned alongside P2610 in official Dodge TSBs and is a common failure point on the 2.4L engine.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products (PC980), Delphi (SS11760)
  OEM price range: $90-$131
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$80

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0335 — A faulty crankshaft position sensor can confuse the PCM about the engine's operational state, directly impacting the engine-off timer. It is cited in the same TSBs as P2610. [Bulletin #18-067-16, #18-058-16, 16]
• P1607 — This code for 'PCM Internal Shutdown Timer Rationality' is closely related and often points to the same software issue or power supply problem as P2610. [Bulletin #18-009-16 REV. B, #18-058-16, 3]
• P0456 — This 'EVAP System Small Leak' code is mentioned in multiple TSBs for the Dart alongside P2610, indicating it is part of the same software update package designed to fix multiple unrelated bugs. [Bulletin #18-009-16 REV. B, #18-058-16, 2]
• U0140 — 'Lost Communication With Body Control Module' can indicate a broader electrical or network issue that could also affect the PCM's ability to function correctly. It is mentioned in TSB #18-067-16.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-009-16 REV. C: Supersedes REV. B and applies to 2016 Darts with the 2.4L engine, addressing P2610 and other codes with a PCM software release.
• 18-067-16: Links P2610 with P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit) on 2014 models.
• 18-058-16: Also links P2610 with P0335 and points to a software release as the fix for 2016 models.
• 18-090-16 REV. A: While for a Jeep Grand Cherokee, it shows a pattern for FCA vehicles where P2610 and P0335 are fixed together with a PCM flash.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Dodge released several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the 2013-2016 Dart to correct this code, among others, via a PCM software update. The relevant TSBs are #18-009-16 REV. C, #18-067-16, and #18-058-16.
• TSB 18-009-16 REV. C specifically applies to 2016 Dodge Darts with the 2.4L Engine (Sales Codes ED6 or ED8) and lists P2610 as one of the codes resolved by the software update.
• Owners on forums frequently report that a dealer reflash is the ultimate solution, but often only after a battery replacement was attempted first. The combination of P2610 and P0335 is very common and points directly to the TSB-documented issue.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• PCM Fused B+ (Battery) Feed Voltage — expected: Should be equal to battery voltage (approx. 12.6V with key off). Failure: Low or no voltage indicates a wiring issue or blown fuse (F16, F18, F24 in under-hood fuse box).
• Crankshaft Position Sensor (3-wire) Reference Voltage — expected: Approximately 5 volts DC on the reference wire with key on, engine off.. Failure: No voltage or significantly lower voltage points to a PCM or wiring fault.
• Voltage during PCM Flash — expected: Must be maintained between 13.2 and 13.5 volts.. Failure: Dropping below 13.2V or exceeding 13.5V can cause the flash process to fail or corrupt the PCM.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH 2.0: ECU Flash / Reprogram — This is the primary repair procedure to install updated software that resolves the P2610 bug, as specified in multiple TSBs. The tool automatically downloads the correct calibration file.
• AlfaOBD / OBDLink MX+: Proxy Alignment — This function is required if the PCM is replaced with a used unit from another vehicle. It synchronizes the VIN and configuration data between the PCM and other modules (like the BCM) to prevent a VIN mismatch, which causes a flashing odometer and other faults.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• PCM / ECM — In the engine bay, next to the battery and under-hood fuse box.. The PCM is the module setting the code. Its power and ground connections are critical. The unit itself is the location for software updates.
• Engine/Transmission to Chassis Ground — A braided strap located on the driver's side, connecting the transmission mount area to the chassis frame rail, visible from underneath or through the driver's side wheel well.. This is the main ground path for the engine and transmission. Corrosion or looseness here is a very common cause of numerous electrical issues on the Dart, including no-start conditions and erratic module behavior that can trigger P2610.
• PCM Power Fuses — In the under-hood fuse box next to the battery. Specifically, fuses F11, F16, F18, and F24 are all related to the PCM power supply.. A loss of constant or switched power to the PCM will disrupt the internal timer, directly causing code P2610. Checking these fuses is a fundamental step before diagnosing the PCM itself.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• dodge-dart.org forum user (2013 Dodge Dart 2.4L) — Check Engine Light with codes P2610 and P1607.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing the vehicle battery.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner took the vehicle to a Dodge dealership, which performed a PCM software update (reflash) as per the TSB. This permanently resolved both codes.
• Just-Fix-in Garage YouTube Channel (2014 Dodge Dart) — No crank, no start condition, multiple electrical issues.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initially replacing the starter motor.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The root cause was a corroded main ground connection between the transmission/engine and the chassis frame rail. Cleaning the contact points on the frame and the cable ends restored the ground connection and fixed all electrical problems for $0.
• Electrical Car Repair LIVE YouTube Channel (2015 Dodge Dart 2.4L) — No start, slow crank, and Check Engine Light with code P0335.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Clearing the code without replacing parts.
  ✅ What actually fixed it Replacing the crankshaft position sensor and then clearing the code resolved the P0335 and the starting issues. This confirms the link between the crank sensor (P0335) and related timer codes like P2610 mentioned in TSBs.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 5149167AD, 5149167AE → 5149167AF — Likely an internal revision for improved reliability and performance to address the common failure pattern of the crankshaft position sensor on the 2.4L engine.
  Heads up: The newest part number (5149167AF) is the recommended replacement and is fully compatible with all years.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2013-2016: The specific software calibration files differ by model year. For example, TSB #18-067-16 applies to 2014 models, while TSB #18-009-16 REV. B applies to 2016 models. A dealer's wiTECH tool will automatically select the correct software update based on the vehicle's VIN.