🔢
P0685 is a high-severity diagnostic code. Reading the freeze-frame data and any paired codes is the fastest way to narrow it down. See top-rated scanners on Amazon ↗
These are statistical causes across ALL vehicles - your exact car may rank differently
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🎯 Top Causes & Probability
60%
#1 - Most Likely
Failed PCM Power Relay
The main PCM relay has worn contacts or an open coil. This is by far the #1 cause on Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge with P0685.
🔨 Part
$10-$45
👨🔧 Labor
$20-$80
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy
25%
#2 - Check First
Relay Socket / TIPM Issue
On modern Chrysler products, the relays live inside the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module). The relay terminals burn into the TIPM and cannot be cleanly replaced without TIPM service.
🔨 Part
$200-$900
👨🔧 Labor
$120-$300
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Hard
10%
#3 - Less Common
Wiring / PCM Control Issue
Open between PCM and relay coil, or a failed PCM ground driver. Diagnose only after confirming relay and TIPM are fine.
🔨 Part
$10-$60
👨🔧 Labor
$80-$280
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Medium
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🚫 Is It Safe to Drive?
No. Intermittent stalling or no-starts are common with P0685. Get it fixed before it strands you.
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Identify if the vehicle uses a TIPM - 2007+ Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep products almost always do. The TIPM is the fuse box under the hood.
- Swap the PCM/Main relay - On non-TIPM vehicles this is plug and play. On TIPM vehicles, the relay is soldered in - you need a TIPM repair kit or a TIPM swap.
- Check for fuel pump or stalling complaints - The same TIPM failure that throws P0685 often causes the fuel pump to run when the key is off or fail to run when needed.
- Inspect relay socket / TIPM terminals - Burned or melted = TIPM replacement or specialty repair service.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will my Chrysler stall with P0685?
Often yes. The PCM may lose power briefly while driving, killing the engine. This is a known major issue with 2008+ Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep TIPMs.
Is the TIPM covered under recall?
Chrysler issued limited recalls on certain VINs. Check NHTSA recall lookup for your VIN - search "TIPM recall".
Can I bypass the TIPM relay?
Yes, several aftermarket TIPM bypass relay kits exist for around $60-$120 and prevent recurring failures.
How much does a new TIPM cost?
OEM TIPM: $800-$1300. Refurbished with new relays: $400-$700. Bypass kit: $60-$120.
Will this kill my battery?
It can. A TIPM that lets the fuel pump run with the key off drains the battery overnight.