A weak or failing 12-volt battery that drops voltage during cranking or while sitting.; Poor battery terminal connections or corroded ground straps causing voltage spikes or drops.; A recent battery replacement or jump-start that interrupted module power.; A software glitch or firmware bug in the control module requiring a reflash or update.; Internal failure of the control module's memory circuit or power supply.; Water intrusion or connector corrosion at the module causing intermittent power loss.; Aftermarket electronic accessories wired into the module's power or ground circuit.

DTC codes / U06xx · Network communication / U0600

U0600Internal Control Module Memory Reset

Q: What does code U0600 mean?

Internal Control Module Memory Reset. U0600 indicates that a control module has detected an internal memory reset, meaning its non-volatile memory lost stored data such as adaptive learning values, calibration settings, or configuration parameters. The module is reporting that its own memory was cleared or corrupted, often after a power loss or software glitch, and it may have set the code during the reset event.

U0600 indicates that a control module has detected an internal memory reset, meaning its non-volatile memory lost stored data such as adaptive learning values, calibration settings, or configuration parameters. The module is reporting that its own memory was cleared or corrupted, often after a power loss or software glitch, and it may have set the code during the reset event.

SystemNetwork

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaNetwork communication

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on the dashboard.
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with the vehicle driving normally.
Intermittent rough running or poor shift quality if adaptive memory was lost and the module is relearning.
Accessory features or settings (radio presets, seat memory, climate preferences) may reset to defaults.
Multiple unrelated warning lights if several modules share a power or communication bus.
The engine may start but run with default parameters until relearned.

Common causes, most likely first

A weak or failing 12-volt battery that drops voltage during cranking or while sitting.
Poor battery terminal connections or corroded ground straps causing voltage spikes or drops.
A recent battery replacement or jump-start that interrupted module power.
A software glitch or firmware bug in the control module requiring a reflash or update.
Internal failure of the control module's memory circuit or power supply.
Water intrusion or connector corrosion at the module causing intermittent power loss.
Aftermarket electronic accessories wired into the module's power or ground circuit.

How to diagnose and fix it

Perform a battery load test and check charging system voltage; replace the battery if it fails.
Inspect and clean battery terminals, ground straps, and module connectors for corrosion or looseness.
Clear the code and drive the vehicle through a complete drive cycle to see if U0600 returns.
Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) or software updates for the affected module.
If the code persists, perform a parasitic draw test to find an intermittent power loss.
Verify power and ground at the module connector with a multimeter under load.
Replace or reprogram the control module only after all power and ground faults are ruled out.

Why a memory reset is rarely the module's fault

A marginal battery that still starts the engine can cause U0600 because the voltage sag during cranking resets the module's memory.
Many technicians replace the control module unnecessarily when the real cause is a corroded ground connection hidden under the battery tray or inner fender.
U0600 can be stored as a history code after a routine battery replacement and may not indicate any ongoing fault.
Some modules set U0600 after a software reflash or programming event, and the code clears after a few drive cycles.
Intermittent connector fretting at the module harness can mimic an internal memory failure and is often overlooked.

Can I keep driving with U0600?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive if it runs normally, but avoid long trips or heavy electrical loads until the cause is found. If the engine stalls, shifts harshly, or multiple warning lights appear, stop driving and have it diagnosed promptly.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.