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2001 Dodge Grand Caravan P0601 Code: After PCM Replacement, Poor Engine Performance - What's Next?

Model: dodge grand caravan Fault Code: P0601 Posted: 2012-04-21 10:47

I own a 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan and recently encountered a persistent P0601 diagnostic trouble code. The vehicle was running roughly before I replaced the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with a new Mopar unit, which was reflashed according to instructions. After installation, the P0601 code disappeared — but engine performance has actually worsened compared to before. It now runs poorly and feels less responsive. I'm wondering if the PCM replacement might not have resolved the root issue or whether there's another underlying problem. Could a faulty battery or other component be causing this behavior? I've already replaced the PCM, so what should I check next to address both the P0601 code and the drivability issues?

Related fault codes

P0601

Comments (7)

Anonymous 2012-04-21 14:51

P0601 is typically not directly linked to engine performance or drivability. It often points to a battery-related voltage spike, especially when replacing the PCM on Chrysler vehicles.

Anonymous 2012-05-23 20:18

I've been dealing with a P0601 code for over a year, and I’ve had no noticeable drivability issues. After replacing my PCM, the P0601 reappeared during the second start-up. The vendor asked if I’d replaced my battery — I said no, as it was less than two years old and a high-quality unit with no starting problems. They advised that a battery must be replaced or at least recharged when installing a new PCM on a Chrysler vehicle, because voltage spikes from a failing battery can trigger P0601. I was skeptical but decided to have the battery tested. The results showed internal damage — such as dead cells and short circuits — even though it still started the car. After replacing the battery with a new one, I’m now awaiting my rebuilt PCM. I’ll update once the issue is resolved.

Anonymous 2012-05-25 05:05

Another common cause of engine performance issues in older vehicles like the Dodge Grand Caravan is a failing ignition coil. While it may produce different codes (like P0301), it can still contribute to rough running and misfires.

Anonymous 2012-05-26 11:00

I experienced a bad ignition coil failure, which led to a misfire in cylinder one — that’s reflected in code P0301. However, I don’t believe this directly causes P0601. After installing a rebuilt PCM and replacing the battery, my check engine light has turned off. While I can't be certain whether the original PCM was faulty or if the bad battery caused multiple failures, I now know that on Chrysler vehicles, checking the battery condition before replacing a PCM is essential. This experience may help others facing similar P0601 issues.

Anonymous 2012-05-26 15:58

On any vehicle, it's always recommended to inspect the battery before replacing expensive electronic modules like the PCM — especially in vehicles with known voltage sensitivity such as Chrysler models.

Anonymous 2013-01-03 17:23

Jeff Compton wrote: The other main offender is bad ignition coils! Are you saying a faulty coil can trigger P0601? I currently have this code and also see P0301 (Cylinder 1 misfire). Could there be a connection between these codes?

Anonymous 2013-01-04 09:02

Racerpoet: Please start a new topic and provide your vehicle details — year, make, model, engine type, transmission. Clearly describe the symptoms, list all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and include any relevant history. This helps others diagnose accurately. More information is available at: http://www.obd-codes.com/forums/posting...e=post&f=1