P06dd Code Dodge Charger [Operational Backlashes Fixed!]
The Dodge Charger has long been an iconic symbol of American muscle and performance. But recently, Dodge owners have been experiencing operational repercussions due to a common code.
So, what does it mean for the P06DD Code Dodge Charger?
The code P06DD means dual-stage oil pump failure. It shows fuel delivery problems causing the car to experience various issues, from reduced engine performance to overheating. These issues include a clogged oil filter, faulty oil pressure sensor, blown sensor harness, dirty engine oil, or poor sensor circuit. The fuel system must be repaired by cleaning or replacing certain parts.
So, if you’re a Dodge Charger owner, read on and let us help you get your awesome car back up and running!
What Is P06DD Code Dodge Charger?
The diagnostic trouble code P06DD indicates that the engine oil pressure control circuit is stuck in the “off” position. This means the oil pressure sensor is sending a signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that the oil pressure is too low and is affecting the dual-stage oil pump.
Check Codes Tech Notes for Code P06dd Dodge Charger
Dodge has released a factory service bulletin for the OBD II P06DD code for certain models. These models are-
- 2011 Dodge Avenger
- 2011 Dodge Caravan
- 2011 Dodge Challenger
- 2011 Dodge Charger,
- 2011 Dodge Journey
The bulletin suggests that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) should be reprogrammed for these models. It includes the 2011 Dodge Charger, so before checking all other components, you can reprogramme the PCM to see if the issue is solved.
Based on the specific model, here is how you can check the codes tech notes:
- Go to the official Dodge website. On the home page, select the “Service & Parts” tab and select “Technical Information” from the drop-down menu.
- On the Technical Information page, select “Technical Service Bulletins” from the menu on the left side of the screen.
- Enter the code “P06dd” in the search bar and select “Go.”
- Read through the list of technical notes associated with the code. If necessary, click on the “View” button to read the full text of the technical note.
Verify that all engine systems are working correctly using the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures available in TechCONNECT with the wiTECH Scan Tool.
If any additional Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, note them down on the repair order and provide appropriate fixes before continuing with the instructions in this bulletin. The fixes would depend on the specific reasons behind the problem.
10 Reasons Behind The P06dd Code Flashing
Reasons | Symptoms | Solutions |
Low Fuel Level | Engine Performance Issues | Fill The Fuel Tank |
Dirty Engine Oil | Dark Smoke | Change The Oil Filter |
Clogged Oil Filter | Dirty Exhaust Fumes | Clean The Oil Filter |
Low Oil Pressure Level | Engine Overheating | Higher-Viscosity Oil Use |
Faulty Oil Pressure Sensor | Incorrect Oil Pressure Gauge Reading | Replace The Pressure Sensor |
Damaged Pressure Sensor Harness | Recurring Flashing Of The Oil Pressure Light | Replace The Wiring Harness Pigtail |
Issues With Oil Pressure Sensor Circuit | Oil Pressure Lights On | Replace The Engine Oil Pressure Switch Circuit |
Faulty Dual-Stage Fuel Pump | Sputtering Engine | Replace The Engine Oil Pump Assembly |
Bad Oil Control Valve | Slow Acceleration | Replace The Oil Filter Bypass Valve |
Failing Oil Filter Housing Gasket | Oil Dripping From The Filter | Replace The Valve Cover Gasket |
For any repair processes or replacements, you will need to acquire some products:
- Metric Wrench Set – Easy to handle tools that get the job done fast
- Synthetic Oil Filter – Designed for ensuring peak performance
- Synthetic Air Filter Cleaner And Degreaser – Assures a perfect cleaning and a fresh new look
We are going to provide detailed instructions on how to diagnose and fix the issues.
Reason 1: Low Fuel Levels
Driving habits such as frequent short trips, high-speed driving, and poor maintenance can all contribute to low fuel levels. Speeding on hills and driving in extreme temperatures can reduce fuel efficiency and deplete fuel levels.
Symptom: Engine Performance Issues
Low engine performance occurring due to low fuel levels in a car means that the car cannot run as efficiently as it normally would due to a lack of fuel.
This can cause the car to judder and struggle to maintain proper speed, as the engine does not receive enough fuel to generate the required power.
Source: Mechanic Base
Solution: Fill The Fuel Tank
There is a good process of filling the fuel tank to prevent it from showing low fuel levels again, and these are:
- Make sure the car is parked on a level surface.
- Ensure the fuel cap is closed securely. Open the fuel filler cap, insert the fuel pump nozzle, and press it firmly against the inside of the neck.
- Turn on the fuel pump and start to fill the tank. Ensure the fuel level does not exceed the fill line on the side of the fuel tank.
- Turn off the fuel pump when the tank is full.
At the end of it all, replace the fuel cap, and you should be all set.
Reason 2: Dirty Engine Oil
Dirty engine oil can also be caused by driving habits, as the oil breaks down more quickly when the engine is used for high-performance activities. This is such as fast acceleration, hard braking, and frequent idling.
Symptom: Dark Smoke
Dark smoke that comes out due to dirty engine oil is a sign of a problem. This smoke is usually caused by an overabundance of fuel entering the engine as the fuel delivery process loses its balance.
Solution: Change The Oil Filter
To change the oil filter, here is the process you can follow:
- Locate the oil filter, which is usually located near the oil pan.
- After locating, use a socket wrench to remove the filter. Make sure to catch any excess oil that drains out.
- Get a new oil filter and make sure it is OEM or dealer supplied. Apply a thin layer of oil to the seal. Place the filter in the filter housing and tighten it in place.
- Once it is secure, you can fill it up with new oil.
Start the engine and check for leaks when the entire process is done. If there are none, you’re all set!
Reason 3: Clogged Oil Filter
An oil filter inside a car can get clogged over time as it captures particles of dust, dirt, and other contaminants that enter the engine with the oil.
As the engine operates, the oil filter will become increasingly clogged, reducing oil flow and decreasing engine performance.
Symptom: Dirty Exhaust Fumes
When the filter is clogged, it prevents oil from flowing freely through the engine and into the necessary components. This leads to a build-up of oil in the exhaust system.
This oil is then burned and expelled as exhaust fumes, which can appear black and create a bad strong oil smell.
Solution: Clean The Oil Filter
The process of cleaning an oil filter inside a car involves these points:
- Drain the filter of all oil and remove the filter from the car.
- Use a degreaser to clean off any grime and dirt from the filter.
- Once the filter is clean, use a wire brush to remove any stubborn dirt and debris.
- Rinse the filter with water to remove the degreaser, then dry the filter thoroughly with a clean cloth.
After the end of the process, re-apply a new oil filter, lubricating the gasket for a secure seal. The problem should go away in no time.
Reason 4: Faulty Oil Pressure Sensor
A fuel pressure sensor in a car monitors the pressure of the fuel in the fuel line. When a fuel pressure sensor goes faulty, it may not be able to measure the fuel pressure accurately. Or, it may send false signals to the ECU.
Symptom: Incorrect Oil Pressure Gauge Reading
A faulty fuel pressure sensor can cause a car’s incorrect oil pressure gauge reading. This is because the fuel pressure sensor sends the information to the oil pressure gauge.
If the sensor malfunctions, it will send incorrect readings to the oil pressure gauge, resulting in an inaccurate reading.
Solution: Replace The Pressure Sensor
Removing the faulty fuel pressure sensor from a car involves several steps, so consider these points:
- Disconnect the negative terminal from the car’s battery to prevent any electrical shocks.
- Next, locate the fuel pressure sensor and its wiring harness near the fuel tank or fuel rail.
- Unplug the wiring harness from the fuel pressure sensor and use a wrench to loosen and remove the mounting bolts.
- Carefully remove the faulty sensor from the vehicle.
- In the end, install the new fuel pressure sensor following the reverse process. Make sure when replacing that the pressure sensor has the right part number.
Ensure to properly reconnect the wiring harness and securely tighten the mounting bolts. Once the new fuel pressure sensor is in place, reconnect the car battery’s negative terminal and test the new sensor.
Reason 5: Damaged Pressure Sensor Harness
The oil pressure sensor harness can become damaged due to excessive vibration from the engine. This usually happens when the vehicle speeds too often on bad roads or during extreme weather conditions.
Symptom: Recurring Flashing Of The Oil Pressure Light
A damaged pressure sensor harness can cause the oil pressure light to flash intermittently. This is usually due to a loose connection or broken wire in the harness.
If such is the scenario, it may not be able to send a signal to the sensor. This means the light is going to be flashing again.
Solution: Replace The Wiring Harness Pigtail
The replacement process involves the removal of the damaged wiring harness pigtail first. This is to install a new oil pressure sensor harness inside the car.
And so it requires these steps:
- You must take measures to prevent potential electrical shocks. Disconnect the negative battery cable for you to stay safe.
- Remove protective coverings from the damaged wiring harness pigtail.
- Then, disconnect the wiring harness from the sensor and then from the vehicle by unclipping the fasteners or other connectors.
- Remove the old wiring harness pigtail, and install the new oil pressure sensor harness in its place.
As the new harness is connected to the sensor and the vehicle, reconnect the negative battery cable and test the system for proper operation.
Reason 6: Issues With The Oil Pressure Sensor Circuit
In general, the oil pressure sensor circuit comprises the oil pressure sensor, wiring, and the ECM. If any of the components within the circuit malfunction, the circuit will not be able to detect the oil pressure accurately.
This is one of the reasons why the error code will appear, indicating that the sensor circuitry has issues.
Symptom: Oil Pressure Lights On
The oil pressure light comes on when there is an issue with the oil pressure sensor circuit. It is simply indicating to the driver that something is wrong with the fuel pressure system and quick fixes are required.
Solution: Replace The Engine Oil Pressure Switch Circuit
The process of replacing the engine oil pressure switch circuit involves the following steps:
- Locate the oil pressure switch on the engine and disconnect the electrical connector.
- Remove the old switch and clean the area around the switch. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the screws that hold the switch in place. Once removed, the switch should be free to pull out.
- After removing the old switch, use a vacuum or soft cloth to clean the area around it and remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated.
- Install the new switch and secure it with a nut or bolt.
- Reconnect the electrical connector to the new switch.
- Check the wiring for loose connections and ensure all connections are tight using the right rolls, such as a wrench.
After completing the entire operation, start the engine and test the new switch for proper operation. If the switch is working properly, reinstall the engine cover.
Reason 7: Faulty Dual-Stage Fuel Pump
A fuel pump sends fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. As it ages, it can become impaired due to deterioration. This can lead to a lack of fuel pressure and the engine not receiving enough fuel, resulting in poor performance and increased fuel consumption.
Symptom: Sputtering Engine
When a car engine does not receive enough fuel, it will sputter due to a lack of fuel pressure. The fuel injectors cannot open and close properly, as the fuel pressure is not high enough to open the injectors.
Solution: Replace The Engine Oil Pump Assembly
First, diagnose if the engine oil pump drive assembly has any defects, and proceed with the replacement process:
- The first part involves emptying the oil from the engine and taking out the old oil pump assembly.
- After that, the process will move on by swapping out the seal and gaskets and fitting the new oil pump assembly.
- It may also be necessary to substitute related parts such as the oil pan, oil filter, and oil pressure switch.
- Once the new assembly is fitted, the oil should be replenished, and the engine should be examined for correct oil pressure.
Ultimately, the engine should be started and examined to ensure that the new oil pump assembly performs correctly. Let the mechanics do the job with the best efficiency.
Reason 8: Bad Oil Control Valve
An oil control valve inside a car can worsen over time due to various factors. Common causes include wear and tear from normal use, exposure to extreme temperatures, and improper maintenance.
Symptom: Slow Acceleration
A faulty oil control valve can cause slow acceleration when the car is trying to speed. This is because the valve regulates the flow of oil to the engine for smooth operation.
When the valve does not open or close correctly, it can cause the engine not to receive enough oil. This causes decreased power and torque, which results in slower acceleration.
Solution: Replace The Oil Filter Bypass Valve
For the purpose of the entire operation to take place, you need certain tools- wrench and socket sets and good quality screwdrivers. Removing an old oil control valve in a car to install a new one involves these points in the process:
- Disconnect the vacuum line to the valve and then unbolt it from the engine.
- Remove the old gasket and clean the surface it was mounted on with a wire brush and solvent.
- After that, you will need to install the new oil control valve, use a new gasket, and reconnect the vacuum line.
- You will need to tighten the bolts to secure the valve in place.
Reason 9: Failing Oil Filter Housing Gasket
The oil filter housing gasket is a critical component of a car’s engine. It is located between the engine block and the oil filter housing. It acts as a seal to keep engine oil from leaking.
Over time, the gasket can become worn and cracked due to age, heat, and pressure, resulting in a leak. As the internal system faces pressure, the error code appears for the definitive reason.
Symptom: Oil Dripping From The Filter
When the oil filter housing gasket fails, the oil will seep or drip from the filter around the seal. This will potentially be leading to a mess and engine damage if left unchecked.
This is because oil leaks can cause the engine to lose oil pressure and lubrication. This causes increased friction, heat, and pressure on the engine components
Solution: Replace The Gasket
The process of removing the old oil filter housing gasket to install a new one inside a car involves these steps:
- Drain the engine oil and remove the oil filter housing.
- Then, remove the old gasket from the housing and discarded it.
- The new gasket must be installed on the housing with a thin layer of oil-resistant sealant applied to its edges.
- After that, the housing needs to be bolted back onto the engine, and the engine oil refilled.
You can quickly resolve the issue using the right tools, such as wrenches and screwdrivers. And so, start the car and check for any oil leaks.
Reason 10: Low Oil Pressure Level
If the oil filter is clogged, it reduces the amount of oil that can flow to the engine, thus decreasing the oil pressure. Over time, the viscosity of the oil can decrease due to degradation.
This makes things less effective in lubricating the engine components and lowering the oil pressure.
Symptom: Engine Overheating
Low oil pressure levels in a car can cause the engine to overheat because the engine needs oil to help keep it lubricated and cool. If the oil pressure is low, the oil cannot properly lubricate the engine, causing increased friction and overheating the engine.
Solution: Higher-Viscosity Oil Use
Using a higher-viscosity oil in your car can help maintain good oil pressure levels. The process for doing this involves these factors:
- Drain the old oil, replace the oil filter, and then refill the oil with the higher-viscosity oil.
- Always use the type and amount of oil the car manufacturer recommends.
- Also, be sure to check your oil level regularly and change it frequently to keep the oil pressure from dropping.
By following this process, you can ensure that your car will have the proper oil pressure levels and help keep your engine running smoothly.
What To Do If P06dd Code Appears After An Oil Change
If you see a P06DD code after an oil change, the code likely indicates an issue with the oil pressure sensor. The first step would be to check the oil level and ensure that it is full. If the oil level is correct, the next step would be to replace the oil pressure sensor.
If the oil pressure sensor is not the source of the issue, further diagnostic testing may be necessary to determine the cause of the P06DD code. A mechanic may need to visually inspect the engine and its components to check for any signs of damage or wear.
They may also need to check the oil pressure and condition to ensure it meets the correct specifications.
Performing a compression check or a fuel pressure test may be necessary. The mechanic can then recommend the appropriate repairs to fix one of the 10 problems specified above.
Maintenance Guide To Prevent Oil Pump Issues
Regular maintenance of your Dodge Charger is essential for preventing oil pump issues that can lead to a P06DD code appearing. To ensure smooth operation and to prevent the code from appearing, it is important to carry out the following maintenance tasks:
- Check the Oil Pressure Sensor: Regularly check the sensor for any signs of corrosion or damage.
- Replace the Oil Pump: Replace the oil pump if you feel the pump has been working for a long time. This is to prevent low fuel pressure that can happen at any time.
- Check the Oil Filter: The oil filter should be replaced regularly to ensure that the oil is clean and free of debris.
- Inspect the Oil Pan Gasket: The oil pan gasket can leak if it becomes deteriorated or impaired. Inspect the gasket for signs of deterioration or impairment. It must be replaced to prevent further oil leaks if it is impaired.
- Check the Oil Level: The oil level should be checked regularly to ensure that the engine has the correct amount of oil.
Following this maintenance guide will help keep your Dodge Charger in top condition and prevent the P06dd code from appearing.
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FAQs
Where is the oil pressure sensor located on the Dodge Charger?
The oil pressure sensor is located on the left side of the engine block near the oil filter. It is usually a black or silver metal cylinder with electrical wiring attached.
Can I drive with a broken oil pressure sensor?
No, you should not drive with a broken oil pressure sensor. Driving with a broken oil pressure sensor can cause major engine damage and can even lead to engine failure. It is best to have the sensor replaced as soon as possible.
How do I know if my oil pressure sensor is broken?
You can usually tell if your oil pressure sensor is broken if the engine warning light is illuminated on the dashboard or if you experience low oil pressure. You can also check the oil pressure sensor with a scan tool or multimeter to determine if it is faulty.
Bottomline
The P06dd code Dodge Charger output plagues with operational backlashes, making it difficult to enjoy the experience. Fortunately, as you have seen, all 10 of these problems can be easily resolved, making the Charger a reliable and enjoyable ride.
It is time to go, see you soon.
Bye for now!
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