P06DA: Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit/Open

A switchable or variable oil pump saves fuel by lowering its output at part load; a solenoid valve sets the stage. GM and Ford design it so the pump runs at full output, i.e. high pressure, when the valve is unpowered – the safe default – and at the low stage when powered. P06DA means the control circuit of this valve is open: it can no longer be powered, so the pump stays at high pressure. GM measures the voltage with the driver off and flags more than 200 kΩ after two trips; some GM modules set P06DB instead. GM checks the low-side driver at 11 V or more relay voltage over 40 of 50 samples (100 ms); Ford's smart driver reports output faults after 5 s with the battery at 11 V or more. Mitsubishi's 2022 Outlander uses the same code. The engine is not at risk, the pump just can no longer be regulated.

Symptoms

• Check engine light after two trips
• Usually no noticeable symptom, oil pressure permanently high
• Slightly higher fuel consumption

Most likely causes

• Connector at the control valve loose or corroded (often at the pump in the oil pan)
• Valve coil open or valve broken
• Supply (main relay) or control wire broken
• Engine module software

What to check, in order

Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.

1. Stop and check the level with the dipstick or the car's menu
2. Check the continuity of the wire between the component and the control module.
3. Check for leaks and inspect the sensor's connector
4. Measure the actual pressure with a gauge
5. Check the valve or pump according to the manual

Good to know

• Repair difficulty: medium

What each character of P06DA means

• P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
• 0: Generic code: same on every make
• 6: Control modules and outputs
• DA: Specific fault in that system

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep driving with code P06DA?

If the red oil warning light comes on, stop the car in a safe place and turn off the engine. Do not continue until you have confirmed the level and pressure.

What causes code P06DA?

The most common causes are: connector at the control valve loose or corroded (often at the pump in the oil pan); valve coil open or valve broken; supply (main relay) or control wire broken.

Related codes

• P06DBEngine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Low
• P06DCEngine Oil Pressure Control Circuit High
• P06DDEngine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
• P06DEEngine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On
• P0521Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch A Range/Performance

Sources

• gsi.ext.gm.com: 18OBDG03A Engine Diagnostics
• fordservicecontent.com: OBD Operations Summary Gasoline 2020 2023
• static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10237505 0001
• static.nhtsa.gov: SB 10074965 5290

Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.