P2610 OBD-II Trouble Code: ECM/PCM Internal Engine Off Timer Performance

P2610 code definition

ECM/PCM Internal Engine Off Timer Performance

What the P2610 code means

P2610 is an OBD-II generic code for the Engine Control Module (ECM) detecting that the internal ECM or PCM engine off timer is not performing as it needs to be.

What causes the P2610 code?

• The ECM monitors the internal timer of the ECM or PCM for when the engine is off and sets the code if the problem occurs two key cycles in a row.

• The ECM/PCM cannot detect the engine off time, when it is programming a new drive cycle.

What are the symptoms of the P2610 code?

• The Check Engine Light will be illuminated and the code is set in ECM/PCM memory as a fault.

• The vehicle will not run any different in most cases.

• The engine ECM/PCM will not clear the internal emission monitors, since it cannot complete a drive cycle.

• The vehicle will fail emission testing due to the drive cycles and cannot clear the monitors.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P2610 code?

• Try to scan for codes and document the codes in the ECM/PCM memory and look at the freeze frame data for the problem before clearing the codes and retesting.

• Check for any manufacture repair bulletins for the code to see if a reprograming is needed.

• Clear the code and see if the failure happens after two key cycles.

• Test if the key power to the ECM/PCM turns on and off with key cycle.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2610 code?

• Clearing ECM memory codes before checking the freeze frame data for the main failure problem, so the failure may be duplicated and repaired.

• Failing to clear the ECM codes after the codes are fixed.

• Failing to verify the failure before replacing the ECM/PCM.

• Failing to check manufacture bulletins before replacing the ECM/PCM.

How serious is the P2610 code?

Code P2610 is an indication that the ECM/PCM cannot detect how long the engine has been turned off and this is needed to complete a drive cycle for the internal test monitors. This may cause the monitors to not get completed and this will fail the vehicle emissions.

What repairs can fix the P2610 code?

• Replace the ECM/PCM
• Reprogram the ECM/PCM
• Repair the wiring to the ECM/PCM for shorted key power to battery power.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P2610 code

Code P2610 is to indicate that the ECM/PCM has not completed a drive cycle. This is most commonly due to the internal timer of when the ECM/PCM failed and can no longer detect the engine off time.

Need help with a P2610 code?

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