P068A🔧 Engine computer (ECM/PCM) power relayStop and fix promptly

P068A: ECM/PCM Power Relay De-Energized Performance - Too Early (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-23 · Based on 2 cited source(s)

What P068A means

The engine computer (ECM or PCM) gets its battery power through a power relay. OBD-Codes.com explains that this relay is switched on by a signal from the ignition switch and has to be switched off (de-energized) gradually, in a controlled way, to avoid voltage spikes that could damage the computer. It describes a typical five-wire relay: constant battery voltage, ground, the ignition signal, the output to the PCM, and a sense wire the PCM uses to monitor relay voltage. P068A is set when the PCM detects that this relay de-energized too soon. RepairPal describes it more simply: the PCM sets P068A when it detects a variance in voltage from the power relay. The sources differ on likely causes: OBD-Codes.com lists a defective relay, a blown fuse or fusible link, and an open or shorted circuit between the relay and the PCM, and treats a bad PCM or programming error as the last thing to suspect; RepairPal lists PCM failure first, then the power relay and wiring. Their symptom lists also differ: RepairPal lists the engine not starting and hard or no start in cold weather, while OBD-Codes.com lists delayed or no start and drivability problems. OBD-Codes.com says it applies to many makes, including Audi, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Volkswagen. The sister code P068B means the same relay de-energized too late.

Severity: can I keep driving?

Stop and fix promptly

Get it checked right away. RepairPal rates P068A 'Urgent', and OBD-Codes.com says it should be treated as severe because it can cause a no-start and drivability problems. If the engine cranks slowly, starts late or won't start, don't count on it getting you home.

Common symptoms

Likely causes

Roughly most to least common, based on the sources below. Your vehicle may differ.

  1. Faulty PCM power relay (both sources)
  2. Blown fuse or fusible link in the relay or PCM power supply (listed by OBD-Codes.com)
  3. Open, shorted or corroded wiring between the power relay and the PCM (both sources)
  4. Faulty PCM or a PCM programming error (both sources; RepairPal lists PCM failure first, OBD-Codes.com suspects it only after the relay and wiring check out)

Diagnostic steps you can do

⚠ Before you start

Work on a cool engine, parked on level ground with the parking brake set. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

  1. Read all stored codes and freeze frame data and write them down. Then clear the code and drive to see if it comes back. OBD-Codes.com says an intermittent P068A can be hard to diagnose, and that if it doesn't return and there are no drivability symptoms, the vehicle can be driven normally.
  2. Search for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your year, make, model and engine; a matching bulletin can save a lot of diagnosis time.
  3. Inspect the wiring and connectors at the PCM power relay and the PCM for damage, loose pins or corrosion, and repair anything broken or unplugged.
  4. Check the fuses and fusible links that feed the PCM power relay. OBD-Codes.com says to test fuses with the circuit loaded to avoid a misdiagnosis.
  5. With a multimeter and a wiring diagram for your vehicle, confirm battery voltage and ground at the relay connector, then check the relay's output voltage. No output with good input points to a bad relay.
  6. If the relay output is good, check for that voltage at the PCM connector. Good voltage there points to the PCM or its programming; no voltage points to an open or short between the relay and the PCM.

Typical fixes

Repair costs vary widely by vehicle, region, parts brand and shop, so we don't quote prices. Get a written estimate after diagnosis.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • The engine won't start, or starts late or hard
  • There are drivability problems along with P068A
  • The relay, fuses and wiring check out and the PCM is suspected; it may need reprogramming or replacement with dealer-level tools

Where to buy

Plain search links. Always match parts to your exact year, make, model and engine.

OBD2 scanners on Amazon Parts at Advance Auto Parts catalog at RockAuto

FAQs

Is it safe to drive with P068A?

RepairPal rates it 'Urgent' and OBD-Codes.com calls it severe, since it can cause a no-start or drivability problems. OBD-Codes.com says if the code doesn't come back after clearing and the car drives normally, it can be driven, but get it checked soon.

What is the difference between P068A and P068B?

Both are about the engine computer's power relay switching off. P068A means it de-energized too early; P068B means it de-energized too late.

What is the most common fix for P068A?

OBD-Codes.com lists a defective PCM power relay first, followed by a blown fuse or fusible link and wiring faults. RepairPal also lists the relay and wiring, but puts PCM failure first. Check the relay, fuses and wiring before replacing the PCM.

How much does it cost to fix P068A?

Neither source gives a repair cost. A relay or fuse is far cheaper than a PCM, so get a diagnosis and a written estimate first.

Sources

  1. OBD-Codes.com: P068A ECM/PCM Power Relay De-Energized Performance - Too Early (Stephen Darby, ASE)
  2. RepairPal: P068A OBD-II code (rated Urgent)

Last reviewed 2026-10-23. Code definitions and repair steps can vary by manufacturer. Confirm with your vehicle's service information.