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2009 Pontiac Vibe - Diagnosing P0607 and P0353: Intermittent Loss of Power and Check Engine Light Issues

Model: Pontiac Vibe Fault Code: P0353 Posted: 2015-04-15 17:50

Hello, I'm experiencing intermittent issues with my 2009 Pontiac Vibe, including the appearance of two diagnostic trouble codes: P0607 and P0353. All three warning lights — Check Engine, Vehicle Stability Control, and Traction Control — come on simultaneously. However, I can drive the vehicle normally at times, only to suddenly lose power (like no acceleration or fuel response). I've already replaced both the spark plugs and the battery with no resolution. The dealership has suggested replacing the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which is a costly repair. I'm seeking advice on whether this issue might be related to electrical systems, voltage drops, or a faulty PCM. Any insights into how these codes are linked would be greatly appreciated. Note: P0607 indicates a failure in the vehicle's Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which is critical for engine management. While modern vehicles often cover PCM failures under emission warranties, mileage and time limits may apply — I'd like to confirm if this applies to my case. I've also cleared the codes and tested the vehicle; however, symptoms reappear intermittently. I'm now seeing P0353 (misfire on cylinder 3) and P0303 (misfire on cylinder 3 as well), suggesting a possible coil or ignition issue. For further troubleshooting: - Check if any aftermarket electrical equipment was added (e.g., remote starter, alarm). - Determine whether the symptoms began after the battery replacement in November — though I believe the issues existed prior to that. - If possible, clear codes and monitor for recurrence under normal driving conditions. Additional reference: https://www.obd-codes.com/p0607 Any guidance on diagnosing P0353 or determining if P0607 is related to low voltage or charging issues would be very helpful.

Related fault codes
P0353P0607
Comments (5)
Anonymous 2015-04-16 07:49

P0607 is a serious diagnostic code indicating a failure in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). While PCM units are typically covered under emission warranties with an 8-year coverage period, mileage thresholds may apply — your dealer will need to confirm eligibility. A key question: Have you added any aftermarket electrical equipment such as a remote starter or alarm? Did this issue emerge after your battery replacement in November? For troubleshooting: Clear the codes and drive the vehicle under normal conditions. If P0607 reappears, it may point to a deeper electrical or sensor issue. More details at: https://www.obd-codes.com/p0607 Note: PCM replacements are expensive — consider other diagnostics before replacing the module.

Anonymous 2015-04-16 17:17

Thanks for the advice. After clearing the codes, I didn’t see P0607 reappear initially. However, today I’m experiencing significant power loss and now have both P0353 (cylinder 3 misfire) and P0303 (cylinder 3 misfire). This suggests a possible ignition or coil issue on cylinder 3.

Anonymous 2015-04-17 07:23

Important follow-up: Did you install any aftermarket electrical equipment, such as a remote starter or alarm? Was the P0607 code present after your battery replacement? You currently have both a misfire on cylinder #3 (P0353) and a coil-related issue on the same cylinder (P0303). A practical test would be to swap the spark plug coils — if the code moves to another cylinder, it confirms a faulty coil. If it remains on cylinder 3, then the issue may lie in ignition or fuel delivery.

Anonymous 2015-04-17 14:08

No aftermarket electrical equipment has been installed. The battery was replaced in November, but I believe the symptoms existed before that — so the issue is likely not directly related to the battery replacement.

Anonymous 2015-04-17 15:59

I recommend focusing first on resolving P0353. While it's possible that P0607 could be linked to low voltage or charging issues, especially after a battery change, this remains speculative. Given the complexity and cost of PCM replacement, I suggest exploring simpler diagnostics — such as checking wiring, ground connections, and coil health — before considering a full PCM replacement. Without additional symptoms, there are limited tests available that don’t involve replacing the module.