Fix P061B: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The P061B: Internal Control Module Torque Calculation Performance code indicates a problem with the internal control module’s torque calculation performance in your vehicle. This code suggests that the engine control module (ECM) is having trouble managing the engine’s torque based on inputs from various sensors.

Common causes include issues with the MAF sensor, TPS, electrical supply to the ECM, or mechanical problems like timing chain issues. Resolving this code is crucial for the optimal performance and drivability of your vehicle.

P061B quick overview

Meaning	P061B: Internal Control Module Torque Calculation Performance
Is it serious?	Yes, it can be serious as it indicates a performance issue in the engine’s control module, potentially affecting vehicle drivability.
Possible causes	– Faulty or contaminated Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor – Issues with the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) – Electrical problems, including poor grounding or power supply to the Engine Control Module (ECM) – Faulty crankshaft or camshaft sensor – Air intake system issues, such as an unsealed air filter box – Mechanical issues like timing chain problems – Software issues requiring ECM reflash or replacement – Damaged or corroded wiring and connectors
How to diagnose?	Inspect the Air Intake System: Check the air filter and MAF sensor for proper installation and condition. Verify ECM Power and Grounds: Ensure the ECM has a good grounding and power supply. Scan for Additional Codes: Use a diagnostic scanner to check for other related trouble codes. Check Sensors: Inspect the MAF, TPS, crank, and cam sensors for proper functioning. Reflash or Replace ECM: Consider updating the ECM software or replacing it if necessary. Inspect Wiring and Connectors: Thoroughly check all related wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Conduct Diagnostic Testing: Use advanced diagnostic tools and procedures like checking Mode 6 data. Investigate Mechanical Issues: Look for any mechanical problems that might cause performance issues.

How to fix P061B – learn from mechanics

I looked into P061B service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Ford

Vehicle Information

• 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor 4.6L

Issue + Repair History

• Intermittent stalling when put into reverse, especially in wet conditions
• Pulled codes P0109, P061B, P0625
• EGR module replaced, addressing P0109 code
• Charging system checked, found to be okay
• Air intake system inspected with no leaks found
• MAF sensor replaced but issue persisted
• After various attempts, including replacing MAF sensor, PNDL switch, and reflash of computer, the problem remained unresolved

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P061B

Suggested Fixes

• Run diagnostic flow chart for code P061B
• Inspect CKP sensor or connections
• Check for MAF/TP sensor correlation concern, possibly follow test steps for code P0068
• Inspect sensor connectors, especially the crank sensor, for damage or water ingress
• Reprogram PCM with the latest version
• Check wiring harness for breaks or water ingress
• Scope ignition system when wet
• Inspect air box and air filter fitting
• Verify reverse lights work properly, check for issues with MLP sensor wiring or ground wire
• Check for any harness damage near the firewall

Final Fix

• Replaced MAF sensor, PNDL switch, and reflashed the computer
• Conducted thorough inspection of all wiring, power, and grounds
• Checked engine mounts and bushings
• Despite these efforts, the intermittent stalling issue on wet days persisted

Case #2: Ford

Vehicle Information

• 2007 Ford Edge SE 3.5L

Issue + Repair History

• Customer reported MIL light on with code P061B, no performance issues
• Code cleared but returned after 3 weeks

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P061B

Suggestions for Fixing Issue

• Follow diagnostic flow chart for code P061B
• Check for an unsealed air box or aftermarket cold air intake
• Inspect the air filter box for proper sealing and the condition of the air filter
• Clean or test the mass air flow sensor
• Look for signs of moisture in the air filter or airbox area

Final Fix

• Found the air box was left open on one side due to improper installation of an air filter. After correcting the air box issue, the problem was resolved.

Case #3: Mercury

Vehicle Information

• 2007 Mercury Milan 3.0L

Issue + Repair History

• MIL light on with misfire
• Pulled code P061B with no misfire data available
• Initial repair attempts included clearing the code

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P061B – Powertrain calculated error

Suggestions for Fixing Issue

• Follow diagnostic flow chart for code P061B
• Check if the vehicle has an aftermarket chip or requires ECM re-flashing
• Inspect air filter installation for errors
• Evaluate the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring
• Conduct a self-test to confirm if the fault is currently present
• Consider the possibility of an intermittent or failed crank sensor

Final Fix

• The issue was resolved after recalibration at a dealer. The Ford dealer identified it as a generic type code.

Case #4: Mazda

Vehicle Information

• 2011 Mazda 3 S 2.5L

Issue + Repair History

• Customer complained of “shudder” while stopped
• No codes initially stored
• Replaced spark plugs, issue persisted, and still no codes
• Adjusted spark plug gaps, issue temporarily resolved
• Issue returned with no codes, despite various diagnostic attempts
• Misfire occurs in drive with A/C on and foot on brake

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• Eventually threw codes P061B and P0113

Suggestions for Fixing Issue

• Check motor mounts
• Use Mode 6 on scanner to identify misfires
• Monitor fuel trims, especially when applying brakes
• Inspect and clean the throttle body
• Check the intake gasket
• Ensure proper spark plugs (NGKs) are used
• Consider trying a different scan tool for more diagnostic data

Final Fix

• Replaced MAF sensor as a diagnostic step
• Replaced Engine Control Module
• Issue resolved after ECM replacement

Case #5: Ford

Vehicle Information

• 2007 Ford Mustang 4.0L

Issue + Repair History

• Customer reported vehicle bucking, surging, and stalling
• Codes P061b and P1336 present
• Previous attempts: replaced harmonic balancer, cleaned MAF, replaced cam and crank sensor, disconnected B+ from alternator
• Wiring, grounds, and other components checked

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P061b: Internal Torque Calculation
• P1336: Cam/Crank correlation

Suggestions for Fixing Issue

• Install Ford balancer and crank sensor
• Check for a crankshaft variation relearn
• Scope cam and crank signals for proper alignment
• Consider possible timing chain or guide issue
• Check for damaged or aftermarket balancer
• Investigate wiring to crank sensor or potential PCM issue

Final Fix

• Light tap test on the ECM revealed failure
• Replaced and reprogrammed ECM with a used one
• Vehicle runs well after ECM replacement

Advice	Description of Diagnostic Step
Check Air Intake System	Inspect the air filter box, air filter, and MAF sensor for proper installation and condition. Incorrect installations or a faulty MAF sensor can trigger the P061B code.
Verify Grounds and Power Supply to ECM	Ensure that the ECM has good grounding and proper power supply. Issues in these areas can lead to the P061B code.
Inspect and Replace Sensors	Check the condition and functionality of crucial sensors like the MAF, TPS, crank, and cam sensors. Replace if faulty or showing signs of malfunction.
Reflash or Replace ECM	If the issue is not resolved by sensor inspections, consider reflashing the ECM with the latest software update or replacing it if necessary.
Check Wiring and Connectors	Thoroughly inspect wiring harnesses and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections that could affect sensor readings and ECM functionality.
Perform Diagnostic Testing	Utilize scan tools and diagnostic procedures such as checking Mode 6 data or running specific tests for related trouble codes.
Investigate Mechanical Issues	Look for underlying mechanical problems like timing chain issues or improper installation of parts that could affect engine performance and trigger the P061B code.