Battery Disconnect Code for Subaru

April 30, 2021

This bulletin applies to all Subaru WRX and Forester vehicles equipped with a turbocharged engine.

This bulletin applies to all Subaru WRX and Forester vehicles equipped with a turbocharged engine. DTC P0606 might be stored. The engine management system is equipped with a backup memory. When disconnecting the battery cables, the backup memory is cleared. On Forester and WRX models, after reconnecting the battery, if the ignition switch is turned back on within one minute after the first time, it becomes possible for the CEL to illuminate, storing P0606 in memory. The code will not occur immediately but may occur after a period of time depending on how the vehicle is operated.

Examples of scenarios that can start the groundwork for DTC P0606:

- Disconnecting the battery

- OBD memory clear

- A dead battery

- ECM replacement (requires battery disconnect)

- Accessory installation or other procedure that requires battery disconnect

To minimize the chances of DTC P0606 setting, if you know (or suspect) any of the above or a similar scenario has occurred, or if you already have the DTC stored, follow these procedures:

Using the SSMIII, clear the ECM memory in OBD

Turn on the ignition, then off normally one time. Wait for more than one minute before turning the ignition back on again.

This procedure allows the self-shutoff relay to power down, completing the self-shutoff procedure.

About the Author

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.

About the Author

Mike Mavrigian | Motor Age Editor

Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of  specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.

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