P2506

  • Powertrain
  • Manufacturer-specific
SeveritySeverity level 3 of 5: Diagnose soon.

Diagnose soon

Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.

Standard definition

ECM/PCM Power Input Signal Range/Performance

This code is in our catalogue but has not yet been through editorial review, so the guidance below is limited to what our structured data supports. We publish deeper diagnostic content only after a code has been reviewed — here is why.

In plain English

The switched-battery input to the ECM/PCM is present, but the level or transient behaviour is out of plausibility — sagging during cranking, slow ramp-up after main-relay close, or noisy. Often caused by aged main relay contacts or a weak battery feed under load.

A trouble code records what a control module measured. It does not identify which part failed. Test before replacing anything.

Can I keep driving?
Safe to drive
Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.
Urgency
Diagnose soon
Will it pass emissions
Not affected
Check engine light
Solid
Likely causes
#CauseHow oftenComponent
1Aged main relay contacts with rising contact resistanceVery common
2Weak battery sagging during crankCommon
3Sensor element aged beyond calibration windowOccasional

Ordering reflects how often each cause is responsible in general, not a probability for your vehicle. Confirm by testing.

Components involved
  • Main Relay
  • Power Distribution
  • Battery Cables
Sources
Definition
Generic code set (SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6) via the OBDexopen database, dedicated to the public domain under CC0-1.0.
Diagnostic guidance
Written and reviewed in-house. See our editorial policy.
Review status
Awaiting review

Found something wrong? Tell us — we publish corrections.