2001 Dodge Intrepid Is the ECM & the PCM one and the sa

STARRC6

MEMBER
2001 DODGE INTREPID
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
88,000 MILES

I had a new engine put into my car. After they were finished they told me my PCM was bad and needed replaced. The check engine light is on but what worries me is that it wasn't on before the engine went. A friend ran the codes for me and the code came back as P0601. Explanation: EMC unable to comunicate on the SPI line. It gave me some probable causes but they all refer to the ECM. 1st. What is an SPI line? 2nd. Are the ECM & the PCM one and the same? Thank you for your help!

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

P0601 OBD-II Trouble Code
Technical DescriptionInternal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error

What does that mean?Basically that means that there is an interal fault in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). There have been many reported PCM failures on Chrysler/Dodge products although it is possible for this to happen on any vehicle. In Dodge/Chrysler products, a P0601 trouble code means that a serial communication failed inside the computer at least 6 times.

OBD-Codes. Com on FacebookSymptomsLikely, no symptoms will be discernible to the driver, other than the illuminated Check Engine Light. Typically the engine runs fine, gauges work, etc.

CausesA code P0601 in most cases means the PCM has gone bad. This is possibly due to a short-circuit inside the PCM. Or, if you disconnect the wires/connector from the PCM while the battery is still connected, that may also cause this code.

Possible SolutionsWith a P0601 OBD-II trouble code, the most common fix is to replace and reprogram the PCM. In a few cases the dealer may be able to reflash the PCM and get it working. But more than likely the PCM will need to be replaced and reprogrammed (we recommend you take it to a dealership for this). The good news is it *may* be covered under your emmissions warranty. So even if you're out of bumper-to-bumper warranty or powertrain warranty, check your warranty guide or dealer to see if this is covered.