P1633moderate severityPowertrain
Keep Alive Power Voltage Too Low
on 1997 Ford Taurus 3.0L V6 Vulcan · FWD
What this code means
The PCM has detected that the Keep Alive Power (KAPWR) voltage is too low. This immediately illuminates the MIL and means the PCM cannot maintain its adaptive learning values. The KAM circuit should maintain battery voltage at all times.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light (immediately on)
- Engine may not start
- Poor idle quality
- Harsh transmission shifts
- Loss of all adaptive values
Common causes
- Corroded battery terminals or cables
- Faulty PCM power relay
- Blown KAM fuse
- Discharged battery
- Excessive parasitic draw depleting battery
- Wiring issue in KAPWR circuit
Diagnostic steps
- Check battery voltage (should be >12.4V key off)
- Inspect battery terminals for corrosion
- Check KAPWR fuse
- Test PCM power relay
- Test KAPWR circuit voltage at PCM connector
- Check for parasitic battery draw
Repair notes
Clean battery terminals. Replace KAPWR fuse. Replace battery if discharged. Repair wiring.
Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle
P0001
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
P0002
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
P0003
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
P0004
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
P0010
Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P0011
Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
P0012
Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P0013
Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P0014
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
P0015
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1