OBD Guide

P0685

ECM/PCM Power Relay Control Circuit/Open

Severity
🚨 Critical
Can you drive?
Do not drive — repair immediately
Approx. repair cost
$6–889 (est.)

Symptoms

  • The engine does not start or stalls immediately after starting
  • Check Engine Light
  • Complete absence of signals from the ECU
  • Unstable engine operation
  • Spontaneous engine shutdown

Causes

  • Open circuit control circuit of the ECU power relay coil
  • ECU power relay malfunction
  • Oxidation or damage to the relay connector
  • Damage to the wiring between the ECU and the power relay
  • Internal ECU fault

How to Fix

  1. Read OBD-II codes and record all errors
  2. Locate the ECU power relay according to the electrical diagram
  3. Check the power and ground of the power relay with a multimeter
  4. Check the control signal on the relay coil from the ECU
  5. Check the relay itself (replace with a known good one)
  6. Inspect and, if necessary, repair the wiring; replace the ECU if it is confirmed to be faulty

Related codes

Error P0685 by Vehicle Brand