HomeTrouble CodesP0660

P0660 — Intake Manifold Tuning Valve Control Circuitopen Bank 1

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

OBD-II code P0660 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an open circuit in the control circuit for the Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) valve on Bank 1. The IMT valve is a solenoid-operated device that adjusts intake manifold runner length or flap position to optimize airflow across the RPM range. An open-circuit fault means the PCM is not seeing the expected electrical continuity through the solenoid or its wiring.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed IMT valve solenoid

The solenoid coil inside the intake manifold tuning valve most commonly fails open internally. This is the single most frequent cause of P0660, particularly on higher-mileage vehicles.

2. Open or damaged wiring harness

A broken, chafed, or stretched wire in the IMT valve control circuit creates a true open-circuit condition. Heat exposure near the intake manifold makes this circuit especially prone to insulation damage.

3. Corroded, loose, or disconnected connector

The two-pin connector at the IMT valve is exposed to engine bay heat and moisture. Corroded terminals, a pushed-out pin, or a connector that has vibrated loose are common causes.

4. Mechanically stuck intake manifold runner or flap

If the manifold runner shaft, flap, or actuator linkage is carboned-up or jammed, the solenoid may be unable to complete its stroke and the PCM can register a circuit fault.

5. Blown fuse or loss of supply voltage

Although the code is typically reported as an open in the control side, loss of fused battery feed to the solenoid will present identically and should be verified before deeper diagnosis.

6. Faulty PCM driver (rare)

Internal failure of the PCM's output driver for the IMT valve is possible but uncommon. It should only be considered after every wiring, connector, and valve-side cause has been ruled out by resistance and voltage measurements.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Visually inspect the IMT valve connector and the harness between the valve and the PCM for chafing, melting, corrosion, or a disconnected plug.
  2. With the ignition off, measure the resistance of the IMT valve solenoid at its connector and compare to the manufacturer's specification; an open or out-of-range reading confirms a failed solenoid.
  3. With the connector disconnected, check for battery voltage and a clean ground on the appropriate terminals of the harness to confirm the PCM driver circuit is intact.
  4. Use a scan tool to command the IMT valve on and off while monitoring circuit feedback, or perform a bi-directional actuator test where supported.
  5. Remove the IMT valve and inspect the manifold runner/flap for carbon buildup, a broken linkage, or binding that could be preventing normal operation.
  6. If all of the above pass, perform a voltage-drop and continuity test directly at the PCM connector before suspecting the module itself.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Is P0660 usually fixed by replacing the PCM?

No. In the vast majority of cases the fault is in the IMT valve solenoid itself, its connector, or its wiring. Replacing the PCM is expensive and almost never resolves P0660 unless the control module has already been independently bench-tested and found defective.

Can I keep driving with P0660?

Usually yes, at least for a while. The engine will typically run, but you may notice reduced low-end torque, mild hesitation, and a small drop in fuel economy. The underlying cause should still be repaired because it can affect emissions test readiness and long-term drivability.

Where is the IMT valve located on the engine?

It is mounted on or near the intake manifold, often on the side or underside of the lower manifold, and is connected to the runner control flap or actuator shaft by a short linkage. Exact location varies by engine design.

Will clearing the code fix the problem?

No. Erasing the code only clears the light temporarily; if the open-circuit condition is still present, the code will return as soon as the PCM completes its next monitor cycle.