{"id":19782,"date":"2022-09-02T01:01:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-02T08:01:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=19782"},"modified":"2026-07-09T07:50:40","modified_gmt":"2026-07-09T14:50:40","slug":"p0603-code-internal-control-module-keep-alive-memory-kam-error","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/p0603-code-internal-control-module-keep-alive-memory-kam-error\/","title":{"rendered":"P0603 Code: Internal Control Module Keep Alive Memory (KAM) Error"},"content":{"rendered":"\nReading Time: <\/span> 6<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>\n

What Does the P0603 Code Mean?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Diagnostic trouble code<\/a> (DTC) P0603 stands for “Internal Control Module Keep Alive Memory (KAM) Error.” The PCM<\/a> logs it after it fails its KAM self-test, which happens when the self-test calculations don’t match the expected result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The PCM controls and monitors<\/a> many engine systems, and like any component it can develop faults over time. To understand the code, it helps to know how the computer stores data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ROM vs. RAM in Your Vehicle’s Computer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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P0603 code is logged once the PCM fails its KAM self-test.  The code is triggered when the result of the self-test calculations are not as expected.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Read-only memory (ROM) is permanent memory. It can’t be changed and stays intact even if the PCM loses power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Random-access memory (RAM) is temporary memory where the PCM stores new data. RAM can be volatile or nonvolatile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nonvolatile RAM is retained even if you disconnect the battery. Volatile RAM is lost when you turn off the ignition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can learn more about vehicles’ computers in our brief discussion about the ECM\/PCM’s RAM<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is Keep Alive Memory (KAM)?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

KAM is a type of volatile RAM that can be wired directly to the battery so its data isn’t erased when you switch off the ignition. It stores drive-cycle data and updates constantly based on driving and sensor inputs. The PCM runs a routine self-check on the KAM modules, and when the self-test math doesn’t return the expected result, it sets code P0603.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note: The exact definition of P0603 can vary by manufacturer. Consult the correct repair manual or database for your vehicle’s specific definition.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are the Common Symptoms of a P0603 Code?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are some of the common symptoms related to a P0603 code:<\/p>\n\n\n\n