This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.
Definition
P0650 is an OBD-II Code that refers to Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit Malfunction
Meaning
A P0650 code is caused by an ECM (Engine Control Module) receiving a signal that the circuit of Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control is faulty. This means that your car's computer has sensed a malfunction somewhere in the circuitry of the indicator lamp control circuit. When this happens, the ECM will command and set the P0650 code.
Causes
Common causes for this code include:
- Faulty Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit
- Open in the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit
- Short to Ground in the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
- Wiring and associated electrical components in the CAN bus harness that are damaged, open, shorted, or corroded
- Faulty malfunction indicator lamp bulb or LED
- CAN bus with damage or fault
Symptoms
The symptoms of a P0650 code are:
- The MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) will be on permanently
- The MIL Shows will not turn on even when there no issue
- The MIL will flash when starting the vehicle
- The MIL will stay permanently off
Diagnosis
To diagnose a P0650 DTC code, a technician would:
- Scan the vehicle for DTCs
- Clear any other codes that have been stored in the PCM memory first to see if they come back.
- Perform a visual inspection of the wiring and components around the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) circuit, including:
- Fuse links
- The bulb or LED for the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL)
Common mistakes
The following are some of the most common mistakes that a technician may make when diagnosing a P0650 code:
- Not employing a systematic approach to diagnosis
- Not performing electrical continuity tests between components
- Fixing the wrong circuit or component
- Making improper diagnoses based on insufficient information or incomplete testing procedures
- Not consulting OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) documentation for diagnostic steps, procedures, and allowable tolerances.
How serious is this?
A P0650 code may not be serious enough to require immediate attention or repair. However, it is considered potentially hazardous and should be diagnosed as soon as possible in case another code goes unnoticed and causes more costly damage or injury.
What repairs can fix the code?
The following are solutions that may fix this problem:
- By replacing the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) bulb or LED
- By repairing the wiring and components in the CAN bus harness that are damaged, open, shorted, or corroded
- Repairing any other electrical component that may be defective
- Replacing the Engine Control Module (rare)
Related codes
A P0650 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:
U0100 – Lost Communication with ECM/PCM
B1320 – Open in Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit
B1321 – Short to Ground in Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit
U0101 – Lost Communication with Transmission Control Module
Conclusion
In conclusion, the P0650 code is a generic trouble code that means the computer has detected an issue with the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit or the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) bulb. This means that there is a fault somewhere in the car's circuitry and should be diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible.
A P0650 code may not be serious enough to require immediate attention or repair, but it can still cause damage over time if it goes unnoticed and unaddressed. It may also lead to other major concerns or issues.