P2610 on 2014-2016 Ram 2500: PCM Timer Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2014-2016 Ram 2500

For this generation of Ram 2500 with Hemi engines, P2610 is rarely an isolated PCM failure. Manufacturer Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) show it is almost always triggered alongside code P0335, which points to a faulty crankshaft position sensor. [Bulletin #1810822REVA, Bulletin #1810722REVA] The PCM sets the P2610 timer code because it's receiving an erratic or missing signal from the crank sensor, making it impossible to know if the engine is running or off. The true problem is typically the sensor, not the computer itself.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Engine is slow to start or has a long crank time
• Engine may stall unexpectedly
• Vehicle may not start at all (crank-no-start condition)
• Tachometer needle drops to zero while the engine is stumbling
• Failure to pass emissions tests
🎬 Watch: Common symptoms of a failing crankshaft position sensor

Most Likely Causes

1. Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor 🔴 High Probability → Shop Engine Crankshaft Position Sensor Multiple manufacturer TSBs link P2610 directly to P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit) on these trucks, indicating a known failure pattern. [Bulletin #18-082-16] The PCM loses the engine speed signal, cannot determine if the engine is off, and logs both codes.
   How to confirm: Scan for codes; if P0335 is present with P2610, the crank sensor is the primary suspect. You can also monitor the RPM signal with a scan tool during cranking; if it's erratic or zero, the sensor is likely bad.
   Typical fix: Replace the crankshaft position sensor. On Hemi engines, it is typically located on the passenger side of the engine block, towards the rear, held by a single 10mm bolt. 🎬 See how to fix the P0335 code on a Hemi
   Est. part cost: $25-$80
2. Wiring or Connector Issue at Crankshaft Sensor 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Engine Crankshaft The sensor's location near the hot engine block and exhaust can make its wiring harness brittle over time. The plastic locking tab on the connector can also break.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring and 3-pin connector leading to the crankshaft position sensor for any signs of melting, chafing, corrosion, or loose pins. Wiggle the connector with the engine running to see if it causes a stall.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the harness or replace the connector pigtail. The Mopar pigtail kit can be used for repair.
   Est. part cost: $15-$40
3. Weak or Failing Battery ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Vehicle Battery
   How to confirm: Test the battery voltage with the engine off (should be ~12.4V or higher) and while running (should be ~13.7-14.7V). A weak battery can cause unpredictable behavior in various electronic modules, including the PCM, especially during startup.
   Typical fix: Replace the vehicle's battery.
   Est. part cost: $150-$300
4. PCM Software Update Needed ⚪ Low Probability TSBs for this and similar platforms (like the Dodge Challenger and Jeep Grand Cherokee) often call for a PCM software reflash to correct overly sensitive diagnostic parameters that falsely trigger P2610 and P0335. This seems particularly relevant for 2014-2015 models.
   How to confirm: A Ram dealership or a well-equipped independent shop can check if your vehicle's VIN has any pending PCM software updates. This is often done using the wiTECH diagnostic tool.
   Typical fix: The dealer reprograms the PCM with the latest software version. As of 2017, FCA dealers may charge for non-essential software updates (i.e., those not part of a safety recall), so expect a potential labor charge of 0.5-1.0 hours unless you can tie the update to a specific, warrantable complaint.
   Est. part cost: $0-$200

Rare But Worth Checking

• Internal PCM Failure: While the code explicitly names the PCM, an actual internal fault is rare. This should only be considered after the crankshaft position sensor, its wiring, and battery voltage have all been confirmed to be good. A replacement PCM can cost over $1800. Companies like Circuit Board Medics offer repair services for common PCM failures as a more affordable alternative.
• Damaged Crankshaft Reluctor Wheel: → Shop Engine Crankshaft The crankshaft sensor reads a toothed wheel (reluctor) on the crankshaft. While very rare on Hemi engines, damage to this wheel (e.g., a bent tooth) can cause an erratic signal that mimics a bad sensor. This is a major repair that requires transmission removal to access.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner and check for all stored codes. Confirm if P0335 or P0339 is present 🎬 Watch this guide on diagnosing P0335 circuit malfunctions alongside P2610. This is the most critical first step.
2. If P0335/P0339 is present, focus diagnosis there. Visually inspect the crankshaft position sensor and its wiring harness for damage, melting, or corrosion. The sensor is on the passenger side of the engine block, near the transmission bell housing.
3. Test the sensor's circuit. With the key on, engine off, unplug the sensor. The 3-pin connector should have a 5V or 8V reference voltage wire, a ground wire, and a signal wire. Check for reference voltage and good ground.
4. Test the battery and charging system to ensure stable voltage. Voltage should be above 12.4V with the engine off and between 13.7-14.7V when running.
5. If wiring and voltages are good, the most likely cause is a failed crankshaft position sensor. Replace the sensor. It is highly recommended to use an OEM Mopar part to avoid compatibility issues.
6. Clear all DTCs and perform a drive cycle. If codes do not return, the repair is complete.
7. If codes return, contact a dealership to check for any available PCM software updates for your VIN. Reference TSBs like #18-082-16.
8. Only after all other steps have been exhausted should a faulty PCM be considered.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Crankshaft Position Sensor (OEM #05149167AF) — This is the most common root cause of the P2610 code on this specific vehicle, as documented in multiple TSBs when paired with code P0335.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, NGK/NTK, Delphi, Standard Motor Products
  OEM price range: $50-$90
  Aftermarket price range: $25-$60
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Connector Pigtail (OEM #5014010AB) — If the wiring or connector is found to be damaged due to heat or brittleness, the pigtail must be replaced to ensure a solid connection to the new sensor.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products (S2916), Dorman
  OEM price range: $25-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$30

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0335 - Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit — This is the root cause code. The PCM cannot determine if the engine is off (setting P2610) because it has lost the signal from the crankshaft sensor (setting P0335).
• P0456 - EVAP System Small Leak — This code is also mentioned in the TSBs. The PCM's engine-off timer is required to run the EVAP leak test. When the timer performance is compromised (P2610), the EVAP monitor cannot run correctly, which can sometimes lead to an EVAP code being set. [Bulletin #1810822]
• P0339 - Crankshaft Position Sensor Intermittent — This is a variation of P0335 and indicates the signal from the crank sensor is dropping out periodically rather than being completely gone. It strongly points to a failing sensor or a loose wiring connection.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• Bulletin #1810822REVA: Notes P2610 with P0335 for 2016 models.
• Bulletin #1810722REVA: Notes P2610 with P0335 for 2015 models.
• Bulletin #18-082-16: Links P2610 and P0335 for 2016 models.
• Bulletin #18-088-16 REV. A: Confirms the same P2610/P0335 issue on platform mates like the Dodge Challenger, fixed by a PCM reflash.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A series of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) released by FCA confirms a known issue where a failing crankshaft position sensor circuit (P0335) will cause the PCM to log a P2610 timer performance code. This is specific to the 2014-2016 model years with gasoline engines and is the primary diagnostic path.
• Real Owner Experience: On RamForum.com, a user with a 2015 5.7L Hemi reported his truck stalled while pulling into a parking lot. He pulled code P0335 and noted it was a 'permanent' code that could not be immediately cleared. The truck restarted and drove fine, but the stored code pointed directly to the crankshaft position sensor as the culprit, matching the TSB-documented failure pattern.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Crankshaft Sensor 5V Supply Circuit Voltage — expected: 4.7 to 5.2 Volts with key on, engine off, sensor unplugged.. Failure: No voltage or low voltage points to a wiring issue or a problem with the PCM.
• Crankshaft Sensor Ground Circuit Resistance — expected: Below 5.0 Ohms between the sensor connector ground pin and the PCM C2 connector ground pin.. Failure: Resistance above 5.0 Ohms indicates an open or high resistance in the ground circuit (K900).
• Crankshaft Sensor Signal (Live Data) — expected: Scan tool should show a steady RPM reading between 100-500 RPM while cranking.. Failure: An RPM reading of zero or an erratic signal while cranking indicates a failed sensor, wiring fault, or reluctor wheel issue.
• Crankshaft Sensor Internal Resistance — expected: Generally between 200 to 1,000 ohms, but can be up to 2,500 ohms depending on the specific sensor.. Failure: A reading of zero ohms indicates a short circuit, while an infinite or Megaohm reading indicates an open circuit within the sensor.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• Permanent DTC (P-DTC): When P0335 is set, it may be stored as a 'Permanent DTC'. This is an OBD-II standard feature where the code cannot be erased by clearing DTCs with a scan tool or disconnecting the battery. The code will only be cleared by the PCM itself after it has successfully run the component's internal monitor and confirmed the fault is gone. (see via A standard OBD-II scanner will show the code but will give an error when attempting to erase it. The 'permanent' status is part of the code's properties.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (or equivalent high-level scanner): Crankshaft Variation Relearn — While some GM vehicles require this after a crank sensor replacement, it is generally NOT required for 2014-2016 Ram Hemi engines. The system typically relearns automatically. A manual relearn might be attempted as a last resort if codes persist after a confirmed good repair, but it is not a standard procedure for this fault.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• PCM Connector C2 — This is one of the main connectors at the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).. The crankshaft position sensor wiring terminates here. Probing for continuity or shorts between the sensor connector and this PCM connector is a key diagnostic step.
• (F855) 5-Volt Supply Circuit — Wire running from the PCM C2 connector to Pin 1 of the crankshaft sensor connector.. This circuit provides the necessary power for the Hall-effect sensor to operate. A loss of voltage here will cause an immediate P0335 code.
• (K900) Sensor Ground Circuit — Wire running from Pin 2 of the crankshaft sensor connector back to the PCM C2 connector.. Provides the ground reference for the sensor. High resistance or an open in this circuit will prevent the sensor from sending a valid signal.
• (K24) CKP Signal Circuit — Wire running from Pin 3 of the crankshaft sensor connector to the PCM C2 connector.. This is the wire that carries the actual engine speed and position signal back to the PCM. It should produce a digital square wave signal when the engine is running.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• 2CarPros Forum User (Ram Truck (year/engine not specified, but symptoms match Hemi issue)) — Truck would run for 30 minutes, then sputter, misfire, and shut off. After cooling, it would restart. Eventually, it became a crank-no-start condition.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing the fuel pump.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user identified code P0335 and replaced the crankshaft position sensor. After replacement, the engine sputtered like it wanted to start for the first time in a while, indicating the crank sensor was the correct path, though a secondary no-crank issue (possibly starter related from the repair process) then emerged.
• RamForum.com User 'zeddy' (2017 Ram 6.4 Hemi (behavior is identical to 2014-2016 models)) — Sudden sputtering and stalling, 'Service Electronic Throttle' message, rough idle, engine dies. Would not rev over 2500 RPM.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Disconnecting a Pedal Commander throttle module.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user was advised by others that the P0335 code points directly to a failed crankshaft position sensor and to check the wiring harness for rodent damage before replacement. The consensus was a sensor replacement.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 5149167AD, 5149167AE → 05149167AF (or 5149167AF) — Standard part revision and improvement by the manufacturer.
  Heads up: The latest part number, 05149167AF, is the correct replacement for the earlier versions and should be used for all repairs.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2014-2016: The crankshaft position sensor and its location are the same for both the 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi engines in this year range. Both engines use the same part number (05149167AF) and exhibit the same failure pattern of logging P2610 with P0335.