P06DD Code: Engine Oil Pressure Control Stuck Off

The oil pump supplies three to six gallons of oil to lubricate the engine. It’s the part of the fuel pressure oil system that forces oil into the lubrication system to maintain the right amount of pressure under certain driving conditions.

An oil pressure sensor monitors the oil pump’s activity. If the sensor detects that the oil pressure is too low, on-board diagnostics (OBD) will log a P06DD trouble code.

What Does the P06DD Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06DD stands for “Engine Oil Pressure Control Stuck Off.” On a GM or Dodge system, this would mean the pressure would always be at the higher (65psi) setting and would never drop to the lower (30 psi) setting even when commanded to do so.

A pressure relief valve in the oil pump bleeds off oil to the inlet side of the pump to control maximum pressure. Without it, oil pressure will continue to increase at the same rate as the engine’s speed.

Any problem with the oil pump will cause the powertrain control module (PCM) to log a P06DD code.

P06DD on Dodge and GM Vehicles

Dodge and GM both list code P06DD. The Dodge oil pump is a seven-vane oil pump with a moving two-position element that can adjust oil supply pressure by varying the displacement of the pump.

The pump only has two stages of operation and is controlled by an on/off solenoid.

Low pressure mode regulation with the solenoid on is approximately 30 psi. High pressure mode with the solenoid off about 65 psi. The PCM switches the pump between stages based on engine operating conditions, oil and coolant temperatures, speed and load.

Note: The definition of code P06DD may be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P06DD Code?

• Faulty oil pump
• Low engine oil level
• Damaged oil pressure sensor harness
• Dirty engine oil
• Short or open circuit in the oil pressure sensor

What are the Common Symptoms of the P06DD Code?

• Illuminated check engine light
• Rough idling
• Stalling engine
• Poor acceleration
• Excessive vibration from the engine

How to Diagnose the P06DD Code

Before performing specific diagnosis on the oil pump system on code P06DD, you must first eliminate the following:

• Oil filter must meet OEM specifications
• Oil filter o-ring for damaged, missing, or mis-installed
• Engine mechanical tolerances out of specification
• Engine oil pressure out of specification
• Low engine oil deteriorated or dirty oil
• Engine oil contaminated

Keep in mind that P06DD is a generic powertrain code that can be logged in different vehicles. In most cases, the symptoms and causes of this code are similar in various makes and models. However, steps for diagnosis and repair can vary.

Diagnosing this trouble code might require a few tools and a thorough visual inspection of the affected system. If you’re not familiar with the diagnostic process yet, it’s a good idea to have a certified mechanic do the job for you instead.

How to Fix the P06DD Code

Fixing the P06DD code can be tricky without the right tools and automotive know-how. Under these circumstances, it’s best to have a professional take a look at your vehicle instead.

But if you’re someone who knows their way around resolving trouble codes, make sure to have the right set of information and equipment before proceeding. Guides like those from Chilton or an ALLDATA subscription can come in handy when fixing a P06DD trouble code.