How is fault code P0600 fixed?

A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training. 1. Read every stored code on every module, not just the engine. The supporting codes usually point straight at which module has gone quiet, so a U-series code like U0100 tells you a lot more than the P0600 on its own 2. Load test the battery and check charging voltage. Anything below about 12.4V resting or a charging system that dips under load can throw this code by itself 3. Inspect the ECU and module connectors for green corrosion, bent pins, or plugs that aren't fully clicked home. Wiggle the harness with live data running to catch intermittent dropouts 4. Test the earth straps and ground points for the ECU and related modules. A bad earth gives the same symptoms as a broken bus wire 5. Get a proper manufacturer-level tool on it to interrogate each module individually and find which one has stopped responding. This is the step that turns guesswork into a real diagnosis 6. Check for known software bulletins for your car. Some P0600 cases on later vehicles are fixed with a reflash rather

Serial Communication Link Malfunction

Jump to the fix

Severity

Medium

Can I keep driving?

Usually drivable, but get it diagnosed without delay.

First step

A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training. 1. Read every stored code on every module, not just the engine. The supporting codes usually point straight at which module has gone quiet, so a U-series code like U0100 tells you a lot more than the P0600 on its own 2. Load test the battery and check charging voltage.

PPowertrain
0Generic code
6Computer Output
00Sequence number

What does it mean?

P0600 or by definition PCM serial communication link malfunctioning is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code. It can be found in all vehicles which are 1996 and newer. The code simply indicates that there is malfunction between the connection of electronic control module (ECM) and one or more of the submodules. The P0600 will show if the ECM which controls the majority of operations of the vehicle detect lost connectivity or control over one or more modules for eight consecutive starts.

Symptoms

Likely causes

How to fix it

Codes From the Same System

All Fault Codes

Related Similar Codes

This information follows the generic OBD-II definition and does not replace a vehicle-specific diagnosis. The severity rating is rule-based; an authorised diagnostic reading is required for a definitive answer.