SureTrack Real Fix: Hybrid Needs a Battery

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Real Fixes from the SureTrack® expert information resource are documented issues from actual shop repair records and community discussions. Read on to see how SureTrack can help you correct issues that are not easily diagnosed using OEM information alone. SureTrack is available at no additional cost in our ProDemand product.

Hybrid vehicles can have more than one battery. and when one of those batteries has an issue, the car may not operate properly. Follow this Real Fix to see how a code P068A was diagnosed and repaired on this Ford Fusion.

Vehicle
2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid 2.5L

Title
P068A, Replaced 12V Battery

Complaint
The customer states the check engine light is on.

Cause
Connected a scan tool and found code P068A – ECM/PCM Power Relay De-Energized Performance – Too Early. Inspected the ECM/PCM power relay and found no faults. With the key on and engine off, used a multi-meter to inspect for voltage and ground at the ECM/PCM power relay terminals and found ground was present but voltage was below the specified 12 volts. Inspected the ECM/PCM power relay wiring and connections, but found no obvious faults. Used the multi-meter to measure the voltage across the 12v starting battery terminals and found the measured voltage was below the specified range. Used a battery conductance tester to test the battery, and found the battery was unable to conduct the specified amount of current, which verified it was defective.

Correction
Replaced the starting battery, cleared codes, performed a road test and verified that the vehicle operated properly. The check engine light did not illuminate and no fault codes returned.

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About the Author

Nick Taylor

Nick Taylor is the SureTrack Community Administrator and a Senior Applications Specialist at Mitchell 1 with over 25 years of experience with electronic repair data systems. Nick previously worked in the automotive dismantling and engine rebuilding industries.