How to Fix the P0650 DTC Code on Duramax (Step-by-Step)
Duramax engines are one of the most commonly used vehicle engines. While they are well-reputed, that doesn’t mean they are perfect and free of any problems. When the vehicle has an issue, DTC codes can help notify these problems.
However, the DTC code P0650 on Duramax means the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). This fault is detected by the Engine control module (ECM). It is mainly related to the control circuit.
If you are reading this article, you have probably faced this problem. Don’t worry or begin to panic. In this article, we will be covering everything that you would want to know about this DTC.
What Does Code P0650 Mean On Duramax?
The code P0650 is triggered if the ECM or any other module has detected some sort of fault or malfunction within the circuits responsible for controlling the MIL and its other functions.
Each letter in this code can be further broken down to get more technical coverage. We have compiled the full breakdown below for you to glance at.
- P = Powertrain, the system of components that propels your car forward.
- 0 = a generic number derived from the SAE standard
- 6 = Computer auxiliary output
- 50 = Faults in the MIL circuit causing internal failures
How Serious Is Code P0650 On Duramax?
The code, when applied, can prove to be very serious. You are asked to stop driving your car as soon as possible when it flashes and resolve it.
Do note that the vehicle will still have safe operations when the code is active. However, if the code is not resolved, any potential faults or misfires in the future will not be triggered due to the faulty MIL.
As such, you should never delay fixing the problem. Otherwise, the damage, when unalerted, could become much bigger than expected.
What Causes Code P0650 On Duramax?
Numerous factors could be the primary cause of the DTC code. In the list below, we’ve included some potential reasons why this DTC code might appear.
- Malfunctioning or damaged lamps, LED indicators, or bulbs
- Worn out, burnt or faulty wires
- Lose control module straps or knobs
- Bad CAN bus or modules in the system
- Corrupted programming data input
- Malfunctioning lamp circuits
- Defective PCM is involved
How To Fix The P0650 Code On Duramax?
P0650 triggers are incredibly annoying to solve. This is because it is nearly impossible to identify the root problem. It can even take an entire day for someone with untrained eyes to catch on.
If you are wondering about the basic steps needed to patch up the problem, we have you covered.
You are set to go as long as you have the OBD scanner, the required power tools like a screwdriver, and extra accessories that you would need to replace.
Step 1: Run A Diagnosis
The first step in this procedure is to run a manual diagnosis on your vehicle. Start with an OBD scanner and run it over the wires and light bulbs.
You can also start your car and check whether the internal LEDs are working. Inspect the wires and their cases to look for wear and tear. Additionally, look for loose pins, knobs, or terminals.
Step 2: Replace the LED and Bulbs
Use screwdrivers to open the LED indicators that are not working anymore. Then replace them with a new working one. This is a relatively easy task and will not take much time or labor.
Step 3: Fix The Connector
The connectors, or pins, can bend or loosen up. Try to fix it back in its place. You can use a hammer to beat it back into shape. If you can’t, it is better to install a new one in its place.
Step 4: Patch Up the Wires And Circuits
The circuits are the objects that are the most prone to wreckage and damage over time. While you can patch it up using scotch tape and poly-connectors, the scenario might not allow this every time.
In such cases, replace the circuit with a new one that shows no wear and tear. If needed, install new sensors and modules connected via the circuit system.
Step 5: Reprogram the data
If the programs inside the system have been corrupted, you will need to hire a specialist to help set the programs in the right direction. You will also need to delete the affected old programs causing the issue.
Other Symptoms of Getting P0650 On Duramax
There are several symptoms that can be associated with the triggering of the P0650 in the vehicle. We are mentioning the more common ones in the list below.
- Service engine lamps are not working even when they are connected
- LED indicators built inside the vehicle are not turning on
- The LED keeps flashing without control
- Circuits burn up or produce too much heat
- The code keeps flashing even when there are no issues in existence
How Much Does It Cost To Fix The PO650 Code On Duramax?
The typical amount of money that you will spend on fixing the problem will only go towards hiring a professional.
If you decide to do it yourself, the cost will be negligible, at around 10-20 USD for the extra parts.
If you hire a mechanic, expect to pay around 50 to 100 USD based on the price of labor from the shop where you are hiring the mechanic.
Additionally, the mechanic might also charge you extra if some programming is required to remove corrupted data from the mainframe.
Can You Drive Your Duramax With The P0650 Code?
Under no circumstances should you keep driving your car once the P0650 code appears. If you are in the middle of the road, stop the car in a beneficial position as soon as possible.
Attempt to fix the prevailing issue. If you can’t, drive the car to the mechanic as soon as possible. Once the car is fixed, you can use it as it is without any potential problems under the belt.
Conclusion
Now that you are at the end of this article, you should have already understood how to face and resolve this problem appropriately. Hopefully, this article has helped you out in your endeavor.
The P0650 is not a code that foretells great harm to the engine. However, it is a code that only displays when there is something wrong with the diagnosis indicators.
As such, if you ignore the code and keep driving, you will never know when future problems will arise. Before you know it, it will be too late to turn back.
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