P1692 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code. Its exact definition depends entirely on the vehicle make, meaning it can indicate an electronic throttle fault, an immobilizer communication error, or an oil control valve issue.
Because it is manufacturer-specific, the exact application must be verified before diagnosis. This code identifies a detected condition but does not automatically prove a specific internal component has failed.
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- P1692 is a manufacturer-specific code with different meanings depending on the vehicle make and application.
- On BMW applications, it typically indicates an Electronic Throttle Control (EGAS) monitoring fault.
- On Hyundai, Kia, and Chrysler applications, it often points to an immobilizer or key communication issue.
- Accurate diagnosis requires verifying the exact factory definition for your specific vehicle before testing components.
P1692 Code Description and Implications
P1692 is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code. Because it is not a generic SAE code, its exact definition and the monitored system depend entirely on the manufacturer and application.
Some BMW applications: P1692 indicates an Electronic Throttle Control (EGAS) Monitoring Level 2/3 fault. The engine control module detects a rationality mismatch between the accelerator pedal position and the throttle body position.
Certain Hyundai, Kia, and Chrysler applications: P1692 points to an immobilizer system fault. The powertrain control module detects a communication failure with the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) or SMARTRA unit.
Specific Mazda applications: P1692 can indicate an Oil Control Valve (OCV) circuit malfunction, affecting the variable valve timing system operation.
Common Causes of the P1692 Code
Because P1692 applies to entirely different systems depending on the vehicle, the possible causes vary significantly by application.
For BMW applications: A failed throttle body assembly, a defective accelerator pedal position sensor, or damaged wiring in the electronic throttle circuit can cause the rationality fault.
For Hyundai, Kia, and Chrysler applications: An unprogrammed or defective ignition key, a faulty immobilizer antenna ring, or damaged wiring between the immobilizer module and the ECM can trigger the code.
For Mazda applications: A failed Oil Control Valve, clogged engine oil passages restricting VVT operation, or an open circuit in the OCV wiring harness are possible causes.
Symptoms Associated With P1692
Symptoms depend heavily on the specific system and the underlying fault.
On BMW applications, drivers may experience reduced engine power, a limp-home mode, or an unresponsive accelerator pedal due to the throttle system defaulting to a safe state.
On Hyundai, Kia, and Chrysler applications, the primary symptom is a crank-but-no-start condition, as the immobilizer system prevents fuel delivery or spark when a valid key is not recognized.
On Mazda applications, the engine may exhibit a rough idle, poor acceleration, or variable valve timing failure if the oil control valve cannot regulate camshaft phasing.
MIL behavior varies by application. Some vehicles may illuminate the Check Engine Light immediately, while others may trigger a specific immobilizer or throttle warning indicator.
Diagnosing the P1692 Trouble Code
Diagnosis must begin by confirming the exact factory definition and service information for the specific make, model, and engine.
Retrieve the code and record any freeze-frame data or related OBD2 issue codes using a scan tool capable of accessing manufacturer-specific live data and immobilizer modules.
For BMW applications, monitor the live data for the accelerator pedal and throttle body position sensors while sweeping the pedal to identify any signal dropouts or mismatches.
For immobilizer applications, verify the key programming status and check the communication circuit between the immobilizer antenna, the SKIM or SMARTRA module, and the powertrain control module.
For Mazda applications, measure the electrical resistance of the Oil Control Valve and verify that engine oil pressure and mechanical VVT components are functioning correctly.
Repairing the P1692 Issue
Repairs must follow the confirmed root cause identified during system-specific testing.
If the throttle body or pedal sensor is confirmed faulty on a BMW application, replace the failed component and perform the required electronic throttle adaptation procedure.
If the immobilizer antenna or key transponder is confirmed defective on a Chrysler or Hyundai application, replace the hardware and reprogram the keys to the vehicle using a factory-level scan tool.
If the Oil Control Valve is confirmed failed or clogged on a Mazda application, replace the valve, clear the codes, and verify proper variable valve timing operation.
Cost Considerations for P1692 Repairs
Repair costs for P1692 vary widely based on the underlying fault, the specific vehicle application, and local labor rates.
Replacing an Oil Control Valve or an immobilizer antenna ring involves minimal to moderate parts costs and standard labor time.
Replacing an electronic throttle body or performing extensive immobilizer module programming involves higher parts costs and requires specialized equipment.
Cost depends on diagnostic time, component accessibility, required parts, programming requirements, and labor.
Prevention Strategies for Future Occurrences
Keeping ignition keys away from strong magnetic fields and heavy metal objects can help prevent damage to the key transponder chip on immobilizer-equipped vehicles.
Performing regular engine oil changes using the manufacturer-specified viscosity helps prevent sludge buildup that can clog the Oil Control Valve screens on Mazda applications.
Troubleshooting Tips and Best Practices
Do not assume a P1692 code requires replacing the engine control module immediately; on immobilizer applications, a simple unprogrammed key or a failing antenna ring is a much more likely culprit.
On BMW applications, inspect the throttle body connector and wiring harness for chafing against the engine bay components before condemning the throttle body assembly itself.
Check for applicable technical service bulletins, as manufacturers occasionally release updated immobilizer software recalibrations or revised throttle body part numbers to address chronic monitoring faults.
More OBD-II Codes
| P1689 | P1688 | P1687 | P1686 |
| P1685 | P1684 | P1693 | P1694 |
| P1695 | P1702 | P1703 | P1704 |
| P0600 | P0601 | P0603 | P0604 |
| U0100 | U0101 | U0140 | U0155 |
| P1106 | P1107 | P1108 | P1109 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P1692 a generic or manufacturer-specific code?
No. P1692 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code. Its exact definition depends on the vehicle make, ranging from electronic throttle faults to immobilizer communication errors.
Can a P1692 code cause my car not to start?
Yes. On Chrysler, Hyundai, and Kia applications where P1692 indicates an immobilizer fault, the system will disable fuel or spark, resulting in a crank-but-no-start condition.
Will P1692 clear itself if I use a different key?
It depends on the application. If the original key transponder is damaged, using a properly programmed spare key may allow the vehicle to start and clear the immobilizer fault.
Is it safe to drive with the P1692 code active?
Driving is conditional. If the code indicates an electronic throttle fault on a BMW, the vehicle may enter a reduced-power limp mode, making it unsafe for normal traffic.
Does P1692 mean my engine control module is broken?
No. P1692 identifies a detected condition in a specific circuit. While the ECM can fail, faulty keys, bad antennas, or defective throttle bodies must be ruled out through testing.
What Should You Do About the P1692 Code?
Confirm the exact factory definition and technical service bulletins for your specific vehicle application.
Follow the applicable manufacturer diagnostic procedure to test the relevant electronic throttle circuits, immobilizer communication networks, or oil control valves based on your vehicle’s specific architecture.
Repair or replace the confirmed failed component, then retest the system to ensure the engine management and security systems operate correctly.
