What Codes Will This Page Cover?
On this page, you’ll learn code definitions related to your cooling circuit. Here is the code list for this page:
- P0480 Fan 1 Control Circuit
- P0481 Fan 2 Control Circuit
- P0483 Fan Rationality Check
Who Has the Lowest Price?
Some service centers will give you an online estimate to compare. Why drive around Town!?
What Is the P0480 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
The P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes concern your vehicle’s electric cooling fan system. The definition of code P0480 is “Fan 1 Control Circuit,” sometimes defined as “Cooling Fan Relay 1 Control Circuit,” code P0481 is “Fan 2 Control Circuit,” and P0483 is “Fan Rationality Check.” In all cases, these codes indicate that your vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) has detected a problem with your cooling fan, although the problem they’ve detected may be different depending on the specific code. As generic codes, you may see the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes in most OBD-II-equipped vehicles that use an electric cooling fan system, which is true of basically all modern vehicles.
More About Error Code P0480
The electric cooling fan system allows your vehicle to have additional cooling capacity within the conventional radiator cooling system, especially when the vehicle may be hotter overall, such as on a hot day, when the air conditioning is on, or when you’re driving in stop and go traffic, which reduces the airflow over the radiator. This system replaces the previous mechanical cooling fan process; while mechanical fans are actually more efficient in moving air across the radiator, they are less efficient in terms of drag, and in today’s vehicles, every gallon counts. Engine codes P0480 and P0481 indicate a general problem with the engine fan control circuit. The PCM commands the fan to turn on but does not see the electrical feedback indicating it’s on. Code P0483 indicates that the fan circuit has failed a “rationality check,” which means that the cooling fan has reported a change, but the sensors detect that it isn’t operating as it says it is.
What Are the Symptoms of a P0480 Code?
Of course, the symptoms of the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes will vary depending on which code you’re experiencing an issue with. However, these symptoms overlap significantly because both codes have to do with the cooling fan not working as expected. Generally, you may expect to see that the cooling fans are always turned on or never turned on, which can lead to incorrect engine temperature indicators or an increase in engine temperature. This can also decrease fuel economy and have general performance problems, such as misfire-like symptoms, pinging or detonation on acceleration, and even emissions test failure due to high NOx. You should also expect the check engine light or other malfunction indicator lamp to turn on.
What Are Some Causes of a P0480 Code?
Anything within the cooling fan system can cause DTC P0480, P0481, and P0483. These are just a few of the common causes you might see for these codes:
- Faulty fan control relay
- Faulty cooling fan relay terminals
- Faulty cooling fan
- Cooling fan control module failure
- Faulty water pump
- Defective coolant temperature sensor
- Defective wiring and connections within the system
- General problems with the engine cooling system, including poor electrical system grounds
- Issues with the related wiring harness and connector pins
- Parasitic battery drain
- Defective battery, battery terminal, or battery cables
- A blown fuse within the system
- Defective PCM or PCM wiring and connections
It’s a good idea to understand the electric cooling fan system before you learn more about the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes. This isn’t a complete list, but it can help you start understanding this control circuit DTC.
How Serious Is the P0480 Code?
You should consider the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes seriously. Issues with your cooling fan can result in engine overheating in a variety of situations, such as when your vehicle is operating at a high engine load or driving in stop-and-go traffic. The P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes can cause various cooling fan issues, all serious in different ways. Avoid a significant problem with your engine by fixing the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes early on.
Can I Still Drive with a P0480 Code?
You should avoid driving with OBD-II codes P0480, P0481, and P0483. As indicated already, these codes can result in serious engine problems, up to and including problems with the engine overheating. Not only is this potentially dangerous, but it can also result in severe engine damage over time. It can also cause you to be stranded somewhere if it occurs without warning. Avoid driving with the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes active.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0480 Code?
The P0480, P0481, and P0483 trouble codes can be exceptionally difficult to diagnose. These codes are very vague. They only indicate that you’re experiencing some kind of problem with your cooling fan, which means the actual problem can be just about anywhere within your cooling fan system and the components of the engine that connect to this system. There’s also a long list of possible causes, making these codes best tackled by an expert.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0480 Code?
As with diagnosis, inspection is often difficult for the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes. You’ll need a scan tool, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source, which means you need to research wiring diagrams, technical service bulletins, and vehicle service manuals. If you’re unsure about your ability to do all this, you should talk to a professional mechanic for a repair.
Need Additional Help with Your P0480 Code?
For most people dealing with the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes, your best option is to talk to an expert. There are plenty of ways to get extra help with these codes in your area.
First, you should find an auto repair shop in your area. Local auto repair shops are a great place to get engine help while not going too far out of your way.
Additional codes will also be key to determining the underlying cause of the P0480, P0481, and P0483 codes. The OBD-II database at KBB.com will give you insight into these onboard diagnostics.
P0480 Q&A
Common Error Codes
Browse All OBD-II Codes
Get Recall Alerts
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.