Guide To P0618 OBD Error Code Solutions

<<See All OBD Codes

Is the car engine stalling? Do you notice rough engine idle and reduced engine performance along with affected fuel efficiency? All these are indications of problematic Fuel Control Module causing OBD code P0618 getting stored in the Powertrain Control Module.

OBD-II Code Engine may not start is defined as an Alternative Fuel Control Module KAM Error

P0618 is a generic code that is defined as “Alternative fuel control module -KAM error”, and is set when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects a malfunction in, or failure of, the KAM (Keep Alive Memory) of the alternative fuel control module.

“Keep Alive Memory” refers to memory circuits/modules in the PCM that remain powered-up when the ignition is switched “OFF”, and the battery is not disconnected. Essentially, Keep Alive Memory refers to the ever-changing operating parameters the PCM has learned during vehicle operation, and doesn’t represent the hard-programmed operating parameters that are the same for all applications that use a specific programming. Thus, the values stored in the Alternative Fuel Control Module Keep Alive Memory are unique to each application, since no two vehicles are driven in exactly the same way.

Alternative or sometimes Alternate fuel control module refers to the control module that controls/regulates the flow of alternative fuels on vehicles that use more than one type of fuel.

In a fully functional system, the alternative fuel control module is just one of dozens of control modules that are all interconnected via an exceedingly complex web of harnesses that collectively, form the CAN (Controller Area Network) bus system.

In practice (on an application that uses more than one type of fuel), the PCM is continually supplied with input data from a variety of sensors such as engine temperature, engine speed, throttle position and others. When the PCM determines that all required conditions have been met, it will switch over to the alternative fuel supply, at which time the Alternative Fuel Control Module will assume control of the application’s fuelling requirements, using the learned data values/operating parameters stored in the Alternative Fuel Control Module’s Keep Alive Memory.

However, should the PCM detect that the Keep Alive Memory relating to the Alternative Fuel control Module has failed, or is damaged in any way it will set code P0618, and depending on the application, may also illuminate a warning light. Note however, that on some applications, up to eight failure cycles need to occur before the PCM will illuminate a warning light. In these cases, code P0618 will be stored as a “pending code”, until the required number of failure cycles have occurred.

What causes this problem with the Alternative Fuel Control Module KAM Error?

• Alternative fuel control module malfunction
• Shorted or open wires in the controller area network (CAN)
• CAN bus harness connectors are loose, corroded, or damaged
• Loose or damaged ground strap or ground wire in the control module
• CAN bus faulty

1. Fuel Injector Control Module - Check if the control module is itself at fault and replace, if needed. Buy new control module now!
2. Fuel Injection Connector - There can be electrical connector issue in relation to the fuel injection system. Replace the now!
3. Powertrain Control Module - Any fault with the Powertrain Control Module can also cause the P0618 code to the flashed. Get it checked and replace if needed. Buy new components form us.
4. Diagnostic Tool - Always use a professional factory grade OBD scanning and testing tools to diagnose the OBD errors. Buy quality tools from us now!
5. Scan Tools - Make use of quality scan tools and resolve OBD code P0618 error. Buy quality tools from us now!

It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P0618 here:

Common Symptoms

• Stored trouble code, and possibly an illuminated warning light
• Unrelated codes may be present as well, with the exact codes largely depending on the application
• Engine may not idle, or the idling speed may fluctuate
• Idling may be rough, erratic, or exceed/fall below the specified idling speed
• Varying degrees of power loss
• Engine may stall constantly at low engine speeds
• Engine may stall constantly or shut off unexpectedly without a clear pattern being discernible
• Gear shifts may be harsh, erratic, or unpredictable
• Fuel consumption may increase dramatically

Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P0618.

• Alternative fuel control module replacement
• Replacement of wires, connectors, and fuses in the module
• Ground straps and ground wires replacement
• Wires and connectors in the CAN bus replacement
• Replacement of the CAN bus

There is no need to be anxious as Parts Avatar – Car Parts Online is here to help you out! We have high grade Fuel Control Module, Connectors, CAN Scanner and a lot more for our precious customers.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

• Use a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner with assistance from trained and trustworthy technician will analyse the freeze frame data to assess the code and check for any other trouble codes that may be present.
• Reset the codes, and the vehicle should be restarted, to see if the codes persist. If the code no longer exists, it is likely an intermittent issue, or an erroneously triggered code.
• The mechanic should visually inspect the electrical components of the alternative fuel control module and the CAN bus. All of the wires, connectors, and fuses should be checked for damage, and replaced as necessary. Then, the mechanic can check the ground wires and straps for continuity with the battery.
• Next, use a CAN scanner to diagnose the alternative fuel control module, and see if the entire module needs replacing. Whenever any component is replaced, the mechanic should reset the codes and restart the vehicle before continuing with inspections and repairs. This makes sure that the technician is able to know as soon as the issue has been resolved.
• Also check for PCM faults and repair, replace or reprogram as required.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0618 Code

It is important to properly adhere to the OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol. The protocol should always be followed in order, to ensure that the issue is resolved in the most efficient manner possible. The P0618 code can result in other codes appearing, and addressing those codes without addressing this code can lead to a repair that never actually fixes the fundamental problem.

P0619 - Alternative Fuel Control Module RAM/ROM Error