Code
P1626
MERCURY
P — Powertrain
Voltage to Vehicle Load Control Module Circuit Not Detected
Views:
UK: 31
EN: 66
RU: 37
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Blown fuse or fusible link supplying the VLCM
- Open or shorted power feed wiring to the VLCM
- Poor or corroded battery positive or chassis ground connections
- Disconnected or corroded VLCM connector terminals
- Failed Vehicle Load Control Module (internal power supply fault)
- Related control module (PCM/BCM) or ignition switch fault preventing feed voltage
Symptoms
- Illumination of warning lamp(s) or instrument cluster messages
- Certain electrical loads (accessories, lights, pumps) do not operate
- Hard or no-start condition if VLCM controls starter/feed circuits
- Intermittent loss of vehicle electrical functions
- Stored or pending electrical DTCs and possible communication errors
What to check
- Confirm stored DTC(s) and freeze frame with a scan tool
- Measure battery resting voltage (engine off) and voltage with key ON, engine cranking
- Visually inspect battery positive/negative terminals and ground straps for corrosion/tightness
- Inspect fuses, fusible links and relays related to vehicle load control; replace if blown
- Visually inspect VLCM connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or loose pins
- Backprobe VLCM power supply pin with key ON to verify presence of battery/ignition feed voltage
Signal parameters
- Expected VLCM supply voltage (Key ON, Engine OFF): approximately battery voltage (~12.0–13.5 V)
- Minimum acceptable during cranking: typically >9.0 V (depends on vehicle state)
- Open/no-voltage condition: 0 V or significantly below battery voltage at the VLCM power pin
- Intermittent fault: fluctuating voltage or loss of voltage when harness is moved
- Compare measured voltage to battery terminal voltage to detect voltage drop (>0.5 V indicates possible problem)
Diagnostic algorithm
- Retrieve DTC(s) and freeze-frame with a scan tool; note ignition state and battery voltage values.
- Measure battery voltage and inspect battery terminals and ground connections; clean/tighten as needed.
- Identify the VLCM power fuse(s)/fusible link(s) and inspect/replace if blown. Verify fuse holder and inline connections.
- With key ON (engine OFF), backprobe the VLCM power supply pin and verify battery/ignition feed voltage. Record value.
- If no voltage at the module pin, trace the power feed using the wiring diagram: check continuity to the fuse, the relay, and battery positive. Repair any open/shorts.
- Perform voltage drop test between battery positive and VLCM power terminal while key ON and during cranking; repair high voltage drop paths.
- Inspect and test grounds related to the VLCM and main chassis ground points for low resistance; repair as required.
- If wiring and supply are confirmed good but the VLCM lacks voltage or reports internal supply faults, consider replacing the VLCM. Follow manufacturer procedures for replacement and reprogramming if required.
- After repairs, clear codes and verify repairs by cycling ignition and road test; monitor for reoccurrence and check for additional related DTCs.
Likely causes
- Blown/failed fuse or fusible link in VLCM power circuit
- Loose or corroded battery terminal or chassis ground
- Open power feed between battery/ignition source and VLCM connector
- Corroded or bent pins at the VLCM connector
- Failed VLCM or failed upstream relay/ignition feed
Fault status
Status
Voltage to Vehicle Load Control Module circuit not detected — the module is not sensing the expected supply voltage. Inspect fuses, power feed wiring, battery/ground connections and module connector before replacing the module.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1-3 hours
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