P0660 code — how to fix error fast

Facing a code P0660 is one of the worst situations you can end up with regarding your car, and the first thought you’d probably have is that the code is going to affect your engine directly. Thankfully, it’s possible to fix the code without high repair expenses or engine damage, but it takes understanding one thing – the P0660 code meaning.

We know how hard it could be to cope with such an issue if you don’t have much experience at hand, so let us be your guide through it as we go through every possible reason behind the code, along with the ways of fixing and preventing the code in a long run.

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What does the P0660 code mean?

The P0660 code is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a malfunction in the Intake Manifold Tuning Valve Control Circuit. This valve is responsible for controlling the airflow into the engine, which can affect the vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency.

It is important for drivers to fix the P0660 code as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the engine, as well as to prevent poor fuel economy and reduced performance.

What causes the P0660 code?

There are several potential causes of the P0660 code. One common cause is a malfunctioning Intake Manifold Tuning Valve Control Circuit. This can be caused by a faulty valve or other issues, so here’s a complete breakdown of every possible cause behind the code:

Faulty intake manifold tuning valve

The IMTV is responsible for adjusting the length of the intake manifold runners to optimize engine performance. A faulty IMTV can cause the circuit to malfunction, leading to the P0660 error code.

Damaged wiring

The wiring that connects the IMTV to the engine control module (ECM) can get damaged due to exposure to heat, moisture, or vibration. This can cause an open circuit or a short circuit, leading to the P0660 error code.

Problems with the ECM

In rare cases, a failed ECM can cause erratic behavior in the IMTV control circuit, leading to the P0660 error code.

Vacuum leaks

A vacuum leak in the intake manifold system can cause the IMTV to malfunction and trigger the P0660 error code.

Which car models does the P0660 code affect the most?

The P0660 code is commonly found in vehicles with variable intake systems and these models are more susceptible to the code because of the complexity of their intake systems. So, we did some more digging on commonly affected models and this is what we came up with:

• Mazda 3: The Mazda 3 is one of the car models that are most commonly associated with the P0660 error code. This is because some Mazda 3 models have been known to have issues with their intake manifold tuning valve control circuit.
• Nissan Altima: The Nissan Altima is another car model that is frequently associated with the P0660 error code. This issue is often caused by a malfunctioning Intake Manifold Tuning Valve (IMTV).
• Dodge Avenger: The Dodge Avenger is a mid-size sedan that has been known to have issues with its IMTV control circuit, which can trigger the P0660 error code.

How to diagnose the P0660 code

To diagnose the P0660 code, you will need to use a scan tool to retrieve the code and any related codes. There are other ways of diagnosing the code as well, so we decided to list them all to help you figure out which option may work best for you:

Use an OBD scanner

The first step in diagnosing the P0660 error code is to use an OBD-II scanner to read the code and any other related codes that may have been set. This will help you identify the specific circuit or component that is causing the issue.

Test the intake manifold tuning valve

The intake manifold tuning valve should be tested to confirm its functionality. An ohmmeter can be used to check for continuity across the valve terminals, and a vacuum gauge can be used to verify that the valve is opening and closing properly.

Test the ECM

In some cases, the ECM may be faulty and not send the correct signal to the IMTV. Testing the ECM requires specialized equipment and should only be performed by a qualified mechanic.

Perform a smoke test

A smoke test can help identify any vacuum leaks in the intake manifold system that may be causing the IMTV to malfunction.

How to fix the P0660 code

There are several potential fixes for the P0660 code, depending on the underlying cause. One potential fix is to replace the intake manifold tuning valve or control module. Depending on what’s causing the code P0660 in your car, here are some of the solutions you may apply:

Replacing the intake manifold tuning valve

If the IMTV is found to be faulty, it should be replaced with a new one. This is a relatively simple and straightforward repair that can be done by a qualified mechanic.

Repair damaged wiring

If the wiring in the IMTV control circuit is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. This repair requires specialized equipment and should only be performed by a qualified mechanic.

Replacing the ECM

In rare cases, a failed ECM can cause erratic behavior in the IMTV control circuit, leading to the P0660 error code. In this situation, the ECM will need to be replaced.

Fixing vacuum leaks

If a vacuum leak is causing the IMTV to malfunction, it will need to be identified and fixed. This may involve replacing gaskets or hoses in the intake manifold system.

How to prevent the P0660 code

To prevent the P0660 code, it is important to perform routine maintenance on the vehicle’s intake system. This includes doing the following maintenance tasks:

• Frequently replacing air filters
• Cleaning the intake system
• Checking for any wiring or connections damage

It is also important to properly maintain the affected system, including using the recommended fuel and oil for the vehicle. Regular inspections and maintenance checks can help prevent issues that may lead to the P0660 code.

Our take

Overall, you don’t need to have extensive knowledge of the inner workings of automobiles to understand that the P0660 code needs to be fixed as soon as possible. By understanding the code’s meaning, potential causes, diagnostic steps, fixes, and preventative measures, you can ensure that your car is running smoothly and efficiently.

We hope that this guide will suffice in giving you all the necessary insights so you can quickly deal with the code and prevent it from happening again.