Error Code P2511: What It Means & What To Do?

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The trouble code P2511 can be elucidated as ECM/PCM Power Relay Sense Circuit Intermittent. This diagnostic fault code is a generic powertrain code, which means that it would apply to the OBD-II equipped vehicles. The specific repair steps can vary as it depends upon the vehicle make and model.

This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another. The voltage to the ECM/PCM Power Relay is being monitored by the engine control module. This trouble code would be set by the ECM when the ECM/PCM Power Relay would not be as per the specifications set by the manufacturer.

What causes this problem with the ECM/PCM Power Relay Sense Circuit Intermittent?

• Malfunctioning ECM/PCM power relay
• ECM/PCM power relay harness might be unlocked
• ECM/PCM power relay circuit might have bad electrical connection

1. Engine Control Module - Dead cells in batteries can cause a failure in the engine control module. Many times, a battery is left in the rig long after a cell has died. This would affect the grounding in the car battery.
2. Oil Pressure Gauge - The main function of the oil pressure gauge is to make sure that the lubricants reach the areas they need to, including the camshaft, main, and balance shaft bearings. Buy top notch oil pressure gauge from us at economical prices.
3. Car Battery - Faulty car battery can have the problem of overheating and fast discharging. Thus, it can affect the motor performance as well as damaged major components. Replace it immediately.
4. Powertrain Control Module - If there are some faults in the PCM, then it may throw off the timing and fuel settings of the engine, which can negatively affect the performance. A flawed PCM may cause the vehicle to experience a reduction in fuel efficiency, power as well as acceleration.
5. Power Relay - Damaged power relay will affect the pump circuit and thus hamper the performance of the transmission fluid pump going from delays response to not working at all. Thus, replace it now!
6. Ignition Coil - The failure in the ignition coil would also result in the stalling of the vehicle. This might occur due to irregular sparks sent to the spark plugs by the defective coil. So, it is very important to replace the ignition coil with us at equitable prices.
7. Electronic Control Unit - Do you know that the poor performance or unexplained drops in fuel economy or efficiency are often associated to onboard car computer problems, or defective ECU issues?
8. Diagnostic Tools - Use factory grade diagnostic tools to resolve OBD code P2511 error. Buy new diagnostic tools and equipment for us.

You might be thinking that how would you diagnose these problems? We at Parts Avatar Canada would help you diagnose the major symptoms easily.

Common Symptoms

• Visibility in the check engine light
• Car engine might not begin
• There might be hard or no start in cold weather

Looking out for some ways with the help of which you can correct this fault code? Then you have arrived at the correct place. We are here to help you out, so you must check out the steps mentioned below as follows:

• Keep in mind to mend the faulty ignition relay
• The malfunctioning ECM should be repaired or replaced as per the need
• Carefully adjust the faults in the wiring harness to the ignition relay
• Recondition the non-functioning connector pins for corrosion or loose connections

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

• This is a general type of error code which is diagnosed with the help of a scanner.
• The mechanic will insert a scanner to diagnostic port of the vehicle and recover the codes and freeze frame data.
• If he happens to find any additional error codes, he has to address them as well.
• Once it is done, he has to reset the vehicle, and then test drive to see if the error code appears.
• If the error code does not return, then there can be an erratic condition.
• Then the mechanic has to check the wires, connectors and other electrical components and quickly replace them if he finds them to be damaged or defective.
• Most of the latest vehicles utilize a PCM/ECM relay in order to supply the PCM with power and ground signals.
• Others use a system which includes a relay as well as a fused wire that comes directly from the ignition switch or battery junction block.
• This type of error code pertains to the voltage supply for the powertrain control module.
• Just keep in mind that the PCM and ECM are generally the same constituent.
• ECM is short for "engine control module." Since the engine control module and the transmission control module are frequently integrated into a single module, the computer that controls them is referred to as the "powertrain control module." Ninety-five percent of late-model vehicles use a powertrain control module (PCM). Voltage is generally supplied to the PCM using a contact relay.
• A contact relay used in automotive applications will normally used between three and five circuits for operation.
• The initial circuit is constant battery voltage.
• This circuit is generally fused and it stays "hot" at all times.
• After that the next circuit is a ground circuit and it is also constant.
• The third circuit will likely be an ignition power circuit which supplies a second supply of battery voltage.
• The contacts inside the relay are closed when the third circuit is activated, which would send power to the PCM.
• A fourth (and fifth) circuit provides the PCM (and other system controllers) with an input signal that reflects relay voltage.
• The PCM and other controllers utilize the input voltage signal to monitor relay voltage and store a trouble code if the signal is unusual.
• This error code can be successfully diagnosed by using several tools.
• A suitable OBD-II scanner and a digital volt/ohmmeter would be helpful in trying to perform a successful diagnosis.
• Gaining access to access a manufacturer's wiring schematic will also prove to be necessary to successfully diagnosing this code. You can always start with a visual inspection of all wiring as well as connectors.
• Make sure to repair or restore the faulty, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wiring, connectors, and components as per the requirement.
• The system should be retested after repairs are completed to ensure success. If all system wiring, connectors, and components appear to be in good working condition, then you should connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector and all the stored codes and freeze frame data should then be recorded.
• This information can prove to be extremely helpful in diagnosing intermittent conditions that may have contributed to this code being stored.
• Then continue by clearing the code and operating a vehicle to see if it returns.
• This will help to decide whether or not the malfunction is intermittent.
• Now once all the codes have been cleared, then the vehicle should be taken out for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• If the code is not returning immediately, then it would mean that you have an intermittent condition.
• Intermittent conditions can prove to be quite challenging to diagnose and in extreme cases it should be allowed to worsen before a correct diagnosis can even be attempted.
• Start your diagnosis with a visual inspection of the battery cables and battery cable ends.
• Carefully clean or replace cables and ends as per the requirement.
• Just make sure that the battery should be fully charged and then perform a battery load and starting/charging system test.
• Compare your findings with manufacturer's recommendations and then the faulty components should be replaced as per the need.
• If the battery and starting/charging system are in good working condition, then the system fuses and fusible links should be tested.
• The defective components should be replaced and then retest the system.
• Without a constant supply of battery voltage to the PCM, your vehicle could continue to store trouble codes, stall at idle or under acceleration, or exhibit a no start condition. Then you should continue with a visual inspection of all PCM and PCM relay system circuitry.
• Repair or restore any wiring, electrical connectors, or system components which appear to be defective, shorted, corroded, disconnected or faulty.
• If the code resets, or you are experiencing a no start condition, start by unplugging the PCM relay connector.
• Examine for voltage and ground signals on the right circuits and your findings should be compared with the wiring schematic or as per the specifications set by the manufacturer.
• Probe any circuits that do not coincide with the specifications set by the manufacturer with the digital volt/ohmmeter. Just be sure to disconnect the PCM and other associated control module connectors before testing individual circuits for continuity and resistance.
• Repair open, disconnected, or shorted circuits as per the requirement and retest the system. If all of the circuits in the relay connector are in line with manufacturer's specs and the relay fails to provide an output signal to the PCM, then it would mean that there is some fault in the relay.
• If the service engine soon lamp fails to illuminate when the key is in the key on engine off position, suspect a defective PCM relay. If all system circuits check out, and the PCM relay is providing all necessary power and ground circuits, then it would mean that the PCM is quirky.
• Keep in mind that the PCM replacement would require reprogramming of one or more control modules.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P2511 Code

• PCM might start failing
• Some issues related to the PCM power relay
• Issues with the car wiring

P2510 - ECM/PCM Power Relay Sense Circuit Range/Performance