P06DD Code On GM Vehicles: Service Bulletin Fix

Diagnose And Fix A P06DD Code On GM Vehicles: Low Oil Pressure

The P06DD code is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that appears in many GM vehicles, indicating an issue with the engine oil pressure control circuit, particularly related to the dual-stage oil pump. This code is triggered when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects an abnormality in the operation of the oil pump, which can affect engine lubrication and overall performance. If left unaddressed, this issue could lead to serious engine damage. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of the P06DD code and provide step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose and fix it.

Common Symptoms of the P06DD Code

When the P06DD code is present, you may notice several symptoms, including:

Illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL): The most obvious sign of a P06DD code is the illumination of the Check Engine Light on your dashboard.
Low Oil Pressure Warning: The vehicle may display a low oil pressure warning on the instrument panel.
Engine Noise: You might hear unusual noises from the engine, such as ticking or knocking, due to improper oil pressure.
Reduced Engine Performance: The engine may experience reduced power or efficiency because of inadequate lubrication.
Possible Engine Stalling: In severe cases, the engine may stall or fail to start.

GM Service Bulleting PIP540B Addresses the P06DD Code

GM has issued a service bulletin #PIP540B to address a P06DD low oil

GM oil pump for the 4.3L engine

pressure or no oil pressure on the vehicles listed below. GM has determined that the oil pump solenoid valve may become stuck, or the oil pump face may become damaged because the timing chain guide spring may be too short or not seated properly in the guide pivot. A broken tensioner shoe can allow the spring to rub a hole into the oil pump, causing it to fail.

If the oil pump is damaged, check the engine bearings for signs of wear from metal particles. Replace if necessary.

GM oil pump solenoid

How To Diagnose the P06DD Code

Using a bi-directional scan tool, examine the oil pressure while commanding the oil control solenoid on and off. The pressure must change by at least 4 psi to confirm the solenoid valve is working. If it does not change, drain the oil and check for the presence of metal particles in the oil. If you find any, remove the oil pan and check the condition of the oil pump and main bearings. In many cases you can get by with replacing the oil pump and the timing chain guide tensioner.

Vehicles affected by service bulletin #PIP540B

Cadillac CTS-V    2016-2019  6.2L LT4
Cadillac Escalade 2015-2019 6.2L L86
Chevrolet Camaro 2016-2019 6.2L LT1 LT4
Chevrolet Corvette 2014-2019 6.2L LT1 LT4
Chevrolet Silverado 2014-2018 4.3L LV3 5.3L L83 6.2L L86
Chevrolet Silverado LD    2019 4.3L LV3 5.3L L83 6.2L L86
Chevrolet Suburban 2015-2019 5.3L L83
Chevrolet Tahoe 2015-2019 5.3L L83
GMC Sierra 2014-2018    4.3L LV3 5.3L L83 6.2L L86
GMC Sierra Limited 2019 4.3L LV3 5.3L L83 6.2L L86
GMC Yukon 2015-2019   5.3L L83 6.2L L86
GMC Yukon XL 2015-2019 5.3L L83 6.2L L86

©, 2020 Rick Muscoplat