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P1668

Professional

Output Circuit Check Signal High

What Does P1668 Mean?

The PCM has detected an abnormally high voltage signal on an output circuit check line. This indicates a short to voltage or internal PCM driver circuit fault affecting one of the controlled outputs.

Common Causes

35%

Short to battery voltage in output circuit wiring harness

Wiring Harness
Connector Terminals

30%

PCM internal output driver circuit failure or transistor short

PCM
Engine Control Module

20%

Faulty relay or solenoid with internal short to power

Relay
Solenoid
Actuator

10%

Damaged or pinched wiring causing intermittent short to power supply

Wiring Harness
Wire Insulation

5%

Water intrusion or corrosion in connector causing cross-circuit short

Connector Terminals
Connector Housing

Diagnostic Steps

1

Step 1: Disconnect suspected output device (relay/solenoid) and clear codes, retest to isolate fault location

2

Step 2: Measure voltage on output circuit with device disconnected and key on, should read near zero volts

3

Step 3: Inspect wiring harness for damage, chafing, or pinch points where wire may contact power sources

4

Step 4: Check for aftermarket accessories or modifications that may have tapped into PCM-controlled circuits

5

Step 5: Test PCM output driver by measuring resistance to ground with PCM disconnected

Estimated Repair Cost

$150 - $1,000

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P1668 mean?

The PCM has detected an abnormally high voltage signal on an output circuit check line. This indicates a short to voltage or internal PCM driver circuit fault affecting one of the controlled outputs.

What causes P1668?

The most common cause of P1668 (Output Circuit Check Signal High) is: Short to battery voltage in output circuit wiring harness

How much does it cost to fix P1668?

Typical repair costs for P1668 range from $150 to $1,000, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with P1668?

Depending on affected circuit, may cause various system malfunctions. Generally safe to drive but should be diagnosed promptly to prevent further damage.

How do I diagnose P1668?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P1668 to identify the root cause.

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Quick Info

Category

Powertrain

System

Electronic Control System

Difficulty

Professional

Type

Manufacturer

Recommended Tools

OBD2 Scanner

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