OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)
P0600 Serial Communication Link
A general fault on a serial communication link - typically used by older single-wire diagnostic protocols (KWP2000, ISO 9141) before CAN became universal. ECU has lost or corrupted communication with another module.
Is it safe to drive with P0600?
Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.
Common causes
- Most likelyHarness fault on bus line
- Less likelyGateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly
- Less likelyCAN terminating resistor (120 Ω) drifted out of spec
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Possible limp mode or no-start
- Multiple follow-up faults across modules
- Reset/relearn may be needed after repair
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Medium
- DIY friendly
- Best left to a mechanic
- Typical labour
- 0.5–3 h
- Emissions test
- Usually unaffected
- Parts involved
- Serial Communication Bus
Related codes
- P05FDTurbocharger Boost Control A Temperature Too High
- P05FEActive Grille Air Shutter C Performance Stuck Off
- P05FFBrake Pressure Sensor and Brake Pedal Position Sensor Correlation
- P0601Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error
- P0602Control Module Programming Error
- P0603Internal Control Module Keep Alive Memory (KAM) Error
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.