Major Causes & Solutions for Chevy Malibu P06DE Code

The P06DE code on a Chevrolet Malibu means the malfunction of the oil pressure control solenoid or valve above the oil filter. In this case, the powertrain control module notices that the oil pressure is higher than the minimum threshold that has been set.

In this article, I will explain the code and the cause and symptoms of the problem. And finally, the solutions to the problem will be given. Read the article to learn what does P06DE code means on Chevy Malibu and how to fix it.

P06DE Code on Chevy Malibu
P06DE Chevy Malibu

What Does P06DE Code Mean on Chevy Malibu?

The P06DE code describes the engine oil pressure control circuit stuck on. When the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) realizes that the oil pressure is too high for safety, the oil pump control solenoid can be turned off for up to 250 seconds.

In response to variations in oil pressure, there is a fluctuating resistance that either decreases or increases. These fluctuations in resistance are used by the PCM to represent the current oil pressure at a certain engine speed.

The P06DE is initiated whenever the PCM identifies a signal voltage that is outside of its typical range.

Later in this article, when we talk about the fix, we will provide you with additional details regarding this code and its causes. Details of the P06DE error code are as follows:

  • P- Powertrain Code, this group of codes represents the components whose combination pushes your car forward, such as the engine, transmission, and emission systems.
  • 0- The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standard-based generic manufacturing code.
  • 6- Vehicle speed and idling control system.
  • D- Low-voltage BBV sensor circuit.
  • E- Transmission Fluid Pressure (TFP) manual valve position switch-drive without drive ratio.

Note: According to SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standards, the ‘0’ in the second digit of generic codes always indicates that they apply to all vehicle types. For basic emission problem diagnostics, you will need these codes.

How Serious Is P06DE Code on Chevy Malibu?

The computer stores the DTC or Diagnostic Trouble Code P06DE because the engine control system of your Chevrolet Malibu has detected a problem. This code is required to figure out what is wrong with your vehicle.

If the oil pressure sensor fails, it will transmit a faulty signal to the engine’s computer, which will then incorrectly interpret the oil pressure as being either too high or too low.

The oil pressure error P06DE is regarded to be a severe issue, hence it is recommended that it be resolved as soon as possible. If the issue is not resolved quickly, it may cost your vehicle’s engine within a short period of time.

What Causes P06DE Code on Chevy Malibu?

The P06DE code can appear on your car without warning, leaving you to speculate about what’s wrong. The P06DE codes in the Chevrolet Malibu can be caused by a number of things. 

Any of the following issues might have caused a P06DE code:

  • The engine has worn out mechanically from overuse.
  • Lack of proper motor oil usage.
  • There seems to be an issue with the sensor that monitors the oil pressure in the engine.
  • A defective PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is one potential cause of the issue.
  • The resistance in the oil pressure sensor circuit is much too severe.
  • The oil pump, oil pressure relief valve, and tensioners of the engine have failed as a consequence of a mechanical problem. 
  • Lack of normal maintenance, such as not changing the oil and oil filter regularly.
  • Wires that have been damaged, burned, shorted, or corroded.

What are the Symptoms of P06DE Code on Chevy Malibu?

A Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), also called a Check Engine or Service Engine Light, is the primary symptom of a P06DE code on a Chevrolet Malibu.

Some of the other symptoms could be:

  • Besides the Check Engine light, this could make the oil pressure warning light turn on in the cluster of instruments.
  • The engine can also be put into limp mode for safety purposes.
  • Some mechanical sounds may be audible while the engine is running; these sounds might vary with vehicle speed.

How To Fix the P06DE Code on the Chevy Malibu?

Let’s look at Chevrolet Malibu error code P06DE repair methods now. To carry out the necessary steps to correct the engine oil pressure control circuit that has been stuck, you will need to figure out the exact reason for the issue.

Here are some sequential steps you can try to repair the P06DE error code:

Step-1: Get the Error Code

First, from the OBD-II scanner, get all the information and error codes. Follow the procedures below to diagnose the P06DE code using the OBD-II scanner:

  • Connect the OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s OBD port, which is on the left side of the gas pedal or below the steering wheel. The OBD-II port is used to link the scanner to the engine control unit (ECU).
  • Start up your car’s engine. After you do this, the scanner will get information from all the parts and systems of your car.
  • Link your mobile device to the OBD-II scanner app and then you will be able to view all error codes, including the P06DE, right on your screen.

After finishing the diagnosis of the exact problem with the OBD-II scanner, the time has come to solve the P0106 code on the Chevrolet Malibu.

Step-2: Check the Engine Oil

In the second step, it is important to ensure that the engine oil is at the right level and in good condition. It must not have a thick, sticky consistency, and it must not have been diluted with gas or coolant. If the oil has to be changed or added, do so before continuing further tests.

After that, take a look at the oil pressure sensor and use a DMM (Digital Multimeter) to check the sensor and replace it if it needs to be.

Attach a pressure gauge to the engine to measure the oil pressure. Write down the reading and compare it to the value given in the manual to make sure it is in the range suggested by the manufacturing company.

Step-3: Check the Circuits

Conduct a thorough visual examination of the wires and connections for evidence of damage, burns, disconnection, shorts, and corrosion. Once there are no obvious signs of damage, you should check the resistance, grounding, and reference voltage. The results should be compared to the data provided in the manual.

If the engine’s oil pressure drops below the minimum acceptable level, it means there is excessive wear or some technical problem. Changing out the oil pressure switch alone will not fix the P06DE error in your vehicle. 

How Much Does It Cost to Fix the Chevy Malibu P06DE Code?

On average, it costs between $127 and $145 to replace the oil pressure sensor in a Chevrolet Malibu.

In addition, you can expect to pay between $66 and $84 per hour for work that is put into testing and fixing the problem.

This range doesn’t include your vehicle’s model year, location, taxes, or fees. Using car ownership surveys and the average age of a vehicle, it is possible to predict how these costs are distributed.

If you use the Fair Price Estimator, you might get an estimate that is closer to what you should pay for a Chevrolet Malibu in your area.

Can You Drive Your Chevy Malibu with Code P06DE?

It is recommended to not drive the car after getting the code P06DE. Because if the oil pressure in the engine is too low, the car should not be driven until it is repaired.

Driving for a long time after getting the code P06DE can slowly hurt the engine. Even if the engine turns on and seems to be working normally, it could kill the engine if you keep using it without making sure there is enough oil pressure.

If you want your engine to last as long as possible, consult a mechanic and, if necessary, take it to the nearest repair shop immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happened when the fuel pressure control valve or solenoid stopped working?

A fuel pressure control valve or solenoid that doesn’t function properly causes the engine to misfire, slow acceleration, lose power, and experience a reduction in fuel efficiency.

Which automobiles are most likely to display the DTC, or Diagnostic Trouble Code, P06DE?

In addition to the Chevrolet Malibu, many other automobile brands and models are most frequently encountered with this code. A short list of a few of them is given below:
Chevrolet (Chevrolet Colorado)
Cadillac (Cadillac CTS)
Opel (Opel Insignia)
Dodge (Dodge Caravan)
Jeep (Jeep Wrangler)
Mazda (Mazda CX-5)

When an automobile displays the error code P06DE, what additional error codes could also be displayed?

When an automobile displays the error code P06DE, it can usually also show P06DA, P06DB, P06DC, and P06DD error codes.

Conclusion

There is no longer any reason to be concerned if the P06DE error code flashes up on your car’s screen. In short, just follow the advice given in this article about what does P06DE code means on Chevy Malibu and how to fix it.

A test drive must be performed on the vehicle following each step to determine whether or not the P06DE error code has been resolved.

If you are still having trouble after trying these solutions, it is best to contact a professional to help you with the complicated modifications.

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