P2510 is a OBD2 error code that can be stored in a vehicle with any high-end engine even if it is a Duramax. So, car owner who wants to enjoy the low-end torque, and improved trailering capabilities of the Duramax engine, should know what the P2510 code Duramax means.
This error code may log in the vehicle’s dashboard due to ECM or PCM’s power relay sense circuit malfunction. It can happen due to a damaged ECM, PCM, or relay harness that triggers CEL and causes engine stalling. It requires a skilled mechanic to diagnose and fix the error code and the root of the issue.
Article Summary
What Does P2510 Code Duramax Mean?
P2510 code indicate ECM/PCM power relay sense circuit range/performance. It’s a generic trouble code. So it can be triggered to any vehicle with an OBD-II or Duramax engine or made since 1996.
PCM is the key part of the engine control system and it controls engine and transmission operations, maintains communication, and processes data. PCM depends on voltage to process information. It has an ignition relay to direct power to control a certain system.
The ignition relay can’t come on or turn off when it’s short or open. When the engine control module detects this problem, it logs a P2510 trouble code.
PCM can also set a P2510 fault code if the vehicle shows any symptoms of hard start or start condition. These can happen for plenty of reasons. So an expert mechanic should diagnose the car to identify and fix the specific causes of the code.
Causes of Duramax Engine P2510 Error Code
If your vehicle with a Duramax engine shows a P2510 trouble code after diagnosis, the damaged ECM/PCM could be the main reason. The other potential reasons for P2510 code Duramax are:
- Damaged or failure of ECM/PCM ignition relay.
- Shorted or open ECM/PCM relay harness.
- Poor electrical connections on ECM/PCM relay circuit.
- Wiring issue.
Symptoms of Duramax OBD2 P2510 Error Code
You’ll notice an activated check engine light on the vehicle’s dashboard and discover the error code in ECM memory. Some vehicles with Duramax engines may also turn on the service engine soon light. The warning light will remain active unless the trouble code disappears for a minimum of three engine key cycles. Other signs of P2510 code Duramax lml are:
- The vehicle won’t start or will turn off during turning the ignition key to turn on or off the vehicle.
- The OBD-II scanner port won’t access the ECM.
- Engine stalling
How To Diagnose P2510 Code Duramax?
Since, P2510 error code can be set on all vehicles with the OBD-II system, the diagnosis process varies largely. Diagnosing the P2510 trouble code involves using a scanning device and need to check the whole power system. It can be frustrating particularly if you don’t have a skilled hand.
Even many unskilled vehicle owners try to diagnose P2510 and end up making plenty of mistakes. For example, many people clean ECM memory codes before inspecting the freeze frame data. Some don’t clear the ECM codes after fixing the trouble codes. Some people also replace the ECM instead of the ignition relay when don’t find any communication.
The steps of the diagnosing process are:
- Scan the vehicle for other related error codes in the ECM and check the freeze frame data for ECM failure.
- Inspect the ignition relay for corroded or loose pins.
- Check the main fuse box for loose connections of the ignition fuse.
- Install a relay and check if the vehicle runs.
- Check the wiring and connector for corrosion.
If you don’t have enough knowledge of the P2510 diagnosing process, leave the job to the professional mechanic.
How To Fix Duramax P2510 Code?
Before trying to fix the P2510 and P2563 duramax error code, make sure you have the right appliances and enough technical knowledge. If you don’t, get the4 specific repair information of your vehicle make and model.
Another thing to remember is that you may need to check and fix several parts that can trigger the P2510 error code. For example, need to replace the ignition relay, an ECM, or repair connector pins and wiring harness. The other parts that may need to be fixed are:
1. Blocked Oil Filter
A clogged oil filter can cause the oil pressure gauge to read the wrong information. If it is detected by the PCM, it can log the error code. to fix the issue and clear the code, you’ll need to replace the oil filter and change the oil.
2. Rusted Solenoid
A rusted solenoid or the wire that runs between the ECM harness and the solenoid can cause a short in the ECM. It can cause the P2510 fault code. If so, you have to replace the wire or repair the ECM.
3. Faulty Ignition Coil
Quirks in the ignition coil can prevent your vehicle from turning on and set an error code. In this case, you have to replace the damaged ignition coil with the best quality one.
4. Damaged ECU
The ECU checks and controls the function of the car’s battery charging system. If the unit gets damaged, the battery won’t get charged properly. so the vehicle might not start or may turn off suddenly. To fix or avoid this issue, you have to replace to ECU.
5. Bad PCM
A faulty PCM can’t identify the right fuel mixture and may deliver insufficient or excess fuel to the engine. Extra fuel can increase carbon emissions from the engine and drop the fuel economy while a lack of fuel can cause the car’s engine to stutter, choke, and stall. To avoid these consequences and fix the p2510 error code, you have to repair or replace the PCM.
Can You Drive the Vehicle with P2510 OBD2 Error Code?
P2510 error code is usually set due to a shorted or open ignition relay which can cause the engine to shut down. If the ignition relay fails to switch on or off, you may struggle to start the vehicle. Hence you can get stuck anytime and anywhere. Both situations are seriously concerning and can make driving risky.
If you keep driving with P2510 code Duramax engine problems can stall and you may need to tow the vehicle. The engine might not also crank if the relay fails to close. Finally, it can cause severe damage to your vehicle’s engine and cost expensive repair.
How Much Does it Cost to Fix P2510 Code Duramax?
The cost of diagnosing and fixing the P2510 trouble code varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the auto repair shop, and the underlying issue. Some auto repair shops charge around $155 for diagnosing the check engine light of Ford and Toyota vehicles and $165 for BMW.
The cost of fixing the P2510 code depends on the faulty part and the service required. For example, replacing the ignition relay costs $ 67 to $74 while replacing the ECM may cost between $800 and $1,500. But if you need to replace the wiring harness, it can cost about $1,000.
FAQs
What is Code P2510 on a 2014 Duramax?
The p2510 code on a 2014 Duramax means that the ignition relay circuit is open or shorted. If the contacts the stick closed or can’t make contact when engaged, the code may stored.
How To Find ECU error code?
The ECU error codes trigger the digital dashboard display or check engine light. the code is also displayed in PCLink in the ECU runtimes values.
How Long DTC P2510 Code Store After Fixing?
After repairing the underlying issue, your modern car’s system may store the code for around 40 drive cycles as a previously active code. However, the exact driving cycle number varies depending on the vehicle’s model and year.
Final Words
The P2510 code Duramax isn’t a permanent diagnostic trouble code that you can’t reset by using the OBD scan tool or disconnecting the battery. However, you shouldn’t reset this trouble code and keep driving as it may put you in trouble at any time. Instead, bring the car to the licensed auto repair shop, diagnose and fix the issue to drive safely.
Fixing Duramax OBD2 errors are easy but finding out the actual causes are a bit hard. Author is a genuine automobile engineer, he described p2510 error shortly and exactly.