The Lemon IndexThe engine computer found an error in its own memory.
Get it fixed soon. A few more days of normal driving is usually OK, but waiting can turn a small repair into a bigger one or a breakdown.
Failing engine computer. Then: needs reprogramming.
Owners named P0601 in 18 complaints to the U.S. government, most often on the Chevrolet Impala.
Cars owners report it on
Complaints that name P0601, by model. Raw counts, not a failure rate: popular models get more complaints.
Years owners report it on most: 2009 Chevrolet Impala
The details
What P0601 means
The engine computer found an error in its own memory.
Can I drive with P0601?
Get it fixed soon. A few more days of normal driving is usually OK, but waiting can turn a small repair into a bigger one or a breakdown.
39% of the owner complaints that name P0601 also say the car stalls or shuts off. A complaint can describe more than one problem, so this doesn't prove the code caused it.
Common causes of P0601
- Failing engine computer
- Needs reprogramming
A shop should confirm the cause with a scan and tests before replacing parts.
What owners describe
- Stalls or shuts off: 39% of complaints
- Warning lights and electrical faults: 28% of complaints
- Loses power or goes into limp mode: 22% of complaints
- Brakes or ABS act up: 22% of complaints
Share of complaints naming the code whose text also mentions each problem.
Model years that report P0601 most
Related codes
P0600 P0605 P0606 P0607 P060A P061A P061B P061C
Quick answers
What does P0601 mean?
Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error. The engine computer found an error in its own memory.
Can I drive with P0601?
Get it fixed soon. A few more days of normal driving is usually OK, but waiting can turn a small repair into a bigger one or a breakdown.
What causes P0601?
Failing engine computer; Needs reprogramming.
Counts: NHTSA owner complaints whose text names P0601. A complaint is an owner's report, not a diagnosis. Meanings: the standard SAE J2012 definitions in our own words; manufacturer codes only where verified for that make. General information, not repair advice for your car.