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P0650 Severity
Identifying an OBD code is just the start of a complete diagnostic routine. Most trouble codes are caused by a sensor reporting a value that is out of range. Just replacing a sensor may not fix underlying issues. Be sure to understand the code, the part or system in your car that the code refers to, and the risks of delaying professional repair.
Proper diagnosis will save you time and money on unnecessary repairs.
Urgent codes indicate immediate action is necessary. These are urgent and significant malfunctions that can cause severe damage to the vehicle or harm the driver and passengers.
The Check Engine Light, technically known as the Malfunction Indicator Lamp or (MIL), alerts the vehicle's driver that there is an issue with the way the engine or other emissions systems are performing. The check engine light should illuminated for a few seconds when the engine is started and then go out. When the engine control module (PCM) can not control the check engine light, it will set code P0650.
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OBD-II Code P0650 is defined as a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit Malfunction
The purpose of the Check Engine Light, technically known as the Malfunction Indicator Lamp or (MIL), is to alert the vehicle's driver that it's emissions control system is malfunctioning and that the vehicle is now polluting the air. The light comes on whenever the vehicle's pollution levels are 150% or greater than the EPA mandated levels for that year, make and model.
Code P0650 Indicates that the circuit that controls the illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp has failed its self-test. This self-test occurs every time the key is inserted into the ignition and rotated to the start position. When this happens, the MIL light should illuminate and when the engine starts, the MIL light should stay on for 1-3 seconds and then go out. During this time frame, the PowerTrain Control Module checks the performance of the MIL circuitry by looking at various volage readings.
The PCM or Power Train Control Module performs many vital functions in a modern vehicle, such as management of the Emissions Control Systems, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission, Anti-Lock Brake and Traction Control systems.
P0650 Diagnostic Theory for Shops and Technicians
When diagnosing a P0650 code, it is important to record the freeze frame information and then duplicate the code setting conditions with a test drive at the recorded freeze frame conditions. Carefully watch the serial data stream PID values of MIL command and MIL actual. If they disagree at anytime, then you may have verified the problem. I always remove the bulb from the Instrument Cluster and verify the power source, the PCM provides the ground. I do this because the root of the problem may the Instrument Cluster itself. It never hurts to scan the data and codes for the Instrument Cluster and the BCM or Body Control Module. Study the applicable wiring diagram and verify the existence of excellent continuity between the PCM and the Instrument Cluster and MIL socket.