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P0601 on CHEVROLET IMPALA

Internal Control Module Memory Checksum Error

NHTSA Reports
3
Severity
Medium
Most Affected
2009
Crashes / Fires
0 / 0
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database · SAE J2012

What P0601 Means on Your CHEVROLET IMPALA

P0601 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Internal Control Module Memory Checksum Error. This code relates to the computer and output circuits system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

3 CHEVROLET IMPALA owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2009. Most reports come from the 2009 model year. The most commonly reported component is Power Train,Electrical System,Engine (100.0% of reports).

Real CHEVROLET IMPALA Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"On my commute to work on the interstate my impala shut itself off. i was in the left lane when the car showed the reduced engine power on the information panel, it then fully disengaged all engine power and powersteering."

— 2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA owner · POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE · Filed 08/27/2013

"While sitting at a stop light the information panel said reduced engine power as the light turned green. i held up numerous cars as i scanned the obd2 port to clear the code, once again the code read p0601. cleared it and it started right up."

— 2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA owner · POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE · Filed 08/31/2013

"I was driving down a very busy street looking for a restaurant and my car made three dinging sounds indicating a issue. before i even could read what was displaying on my information panel the car lost all power steering and engine power."

— 2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA owner · POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE · Filed 08/24/2013

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

3
'09

Common Causes on CHEVROLET IMPALA

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE 100%

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.

  2. 2
    Get a proper diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.

  3. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0601 mean on a CHEVROLET IMPALA?
P0601 indicates: Internal Control Module Memory Checksum Error. This is a computer and output circuits code. 3 CHEVROLET IMPALA owners have reported this to NHTSA.
What are the most common causes of P0601 on CHEVROLET IMPALA?
Based on 3 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Power Train,Electrical System,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.
Is P0601 serious on my CHEVROLET IMPALA?
Of 3 NHTSA reports for this code on CHEVROLET IMPALA, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.
What should I do if my CHEVROLET IMPALA shows P0601?
1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.

P0601 on Other Vehicles