What Is the P059F Code?
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The P059F code definition is “Active Grille Air Shutter A Performance/Stuck Off.” In some vehicles, the definition of code P059F will not include the specifics of the “A” shutter. This indicates a problem with the Active Grille Shutter System, also spelled “Active Grill Shutter,” which is a system that exists in some vehicles to minimize drag when you increase your speed. While this is a generic powertrain code and can appear in many OBD-II-equipped vehicles, it is most likely to occur in Chevrolet and Nissan vehicles.
More About Error Code P059F
The dynamic/active grille shutter system is a helpful way to reduce drag on your vehicle as you increase vehicle speed. It opens and closes the grille as needed, making air pass through the vehicle easier. However, if the airflow is impacted somehow, the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) will note the issue with the airflow and log code P059F.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P059F Code?
There are many common symptoms associated with the P059F diagnostic trouble code. Poor acceleration, low fuel economy, and horsepower performance problems are common, as the drag coefficient will likely be higher when this code is active. Other potential problems may include rough shifting, noisy operation, and even a burning smell from the vehicle vents or under the hood, often because the active grille air shutter motor is still trying to move but cannot. The check engine light should also turn on when experiencing the P059F code.
What Are Some Causes of a P059F Code?
One of the most common causes of the P059F air shutter code is simply that the active grille shutter motor is bad or stuck. In some cases, it may be due to a faulty active grille air shutter actuator, while in others, it might be because of debris obstructing or impeding one of the active grille air shutters. It’s common for these shutters to be affected by front end impacts to the vehicle, including impacts from debris and hazards. Sometimes, there also may be a wiring problem, including problems with the wiring harness for the active grille air shutter actuator or poor and faulty electrical connections to the active grille air shutter actuator circuit.
How Serious Is the P059F Code?
Most of the time, the P059F code is considered moderate to severe. This engine problem isn’t just about reducing drag on the engine. Different airflow levels also help the vehicle reduce heat buildup around the engine. If the active grille air shutter stays closed when it’s supposed to be open, the engine may get much hotter than it’s supposed to, leading to engine damage over time. Whether you consider this code severe or moderate often depends on its symptoms, but either way, it’s good to talk to an experienced mechanic about the issue.
Can I Still Drive with a P059F Code?
You should avoid driving with the P059F code. Usually, you will physically be able to drive. It’s uncommon for this code to result in a no-start condition. However, the more you drive with it, the more likely the problem will create an ambient temperature high enough to cause severe engine damage, which can be much more expensive and difficult to fix. Generally, if you see that the P059F code is active, you should avoid driving and take your vehicle in to see an expert.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P059F Code?
Diagnosis for the P059F DTC code can be difficult. In most cases, the problem lies with the active grille air shutter system itself, but understanding how the wiring is supposed to look can be difficult, especially for people without experience with this system. The code is also fairly uncommon, so you’ll need a reliable source of information about how the code will appear in your vehicle, such as technical service bulletins and service manuals. While an experienced mechanic will probably have these, most DIYers will not, which is one reason to take your vehicle in.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P059F Code?
Inspection for the P059F code usually requires specialty tools and a fairly extensive flowchart. You need to check for loose or damaged wiring and connectors, check the actuator wire connected to the grille air shutter system, test the grille air shutter motor itself, and also check for any other DTC codes to see if there are other problems that you need to tackle at the same time. This inspection is extensive, and if you don’t have much experience inspecting your vehicle, you may need assistance solving your problem.
Need Additional Help with Your P059F Code?
Many people will need additional help with the P059F code, as it’s not very common and can be difficult to inspect. If you’re looking for help, you can get that help from a certified mechanic near you.
You can find a mechanic by looking for an auto repair shop in your area. Many people don’t want to drive their vehicles very far to get expert repair assistance, so finding a local automobile repair shop is important.
You’ll also want assistance if your vehicle shows other codes on your scan tool. The OBD-II database from KBB.com will help you understand what other problems you’re experiencing and what you can do to fix them.
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