P0484 - OBD Trouble Code

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P0484 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Cooling Fan Circuit Over Current". This code is set when too much current is detected during normal fan operation. Voltage variations that vary by greater than 10-percent of the manufacturer’s specified reference voltage will cause a code to be stored. This code is only concerned with electrical issues (failed cooling fan circuit), including intermittent problems. Trouble code P0484 should be rectified at earliest else can lead to major expense in future.

OBD-II Code P0484 is defined as a Fan Circuit Over Current. It indicates that PCM has detected an incorrect amount of voltage in the electric cooling fan control circuit. This can happen during low, medium or high-speed operation and also includes those vehicles which utilize fan relays to operate the cooling fans. The purpose of the electric cooling fan system is to provide extra cooling capacity to the radiator cooling system when the vehicle is in stop or idle position. When we stop the vehicle or when it is in idle mode then no air is passing through the radiator and the engine begins to increase in temperature. When the temperature reaches about 223-degrees F, the PCM will command the cooling fan relay to turn on the fan. When the PCM try to activate the fan and discover the command and the result do not match, the code is set.

What causes this problem of Cooling Fan Circuit Over Current?

• Damaged wiring, connectors or harnesses
• Defective CTS (Coolant temperature sensor)
• Inoperative cooling fan
• Faulty cooling fan motor
• Blown fuses

1. Cooling Fan Module - The cooling fan module is a complete electrical subsystem. It is able to set the right speed for the fan. Repair or replace it if you discover it faulty.
2. Powertrain Control Module - The PCM or Powertrain Control Module of your car is a critical automotive component or rather a combined control unit. As it is a brain of your vehicle so always maintain its proper functioning.
3. Cooling Fan Relay - A cooling fan relay is used on vehicles that have an electrical fan to cool the engine. The function of the cooling fan relay is to convert a low voltage signal from either the electronic control module (ECM) or a thermostatically controlled sensor. If you discover it inoperative repair or replace it as required.
4. Cooling Fan - A radiator cooling fan is a mechanical or electric fan that helps push or pull air through the radiator. It is the main component to be blamed for this trouble code. Make sure it should not be malfunctioned.
5. Cooling Fan Motor - If the cooling fan motor is faulty then it will never let cooling fan to work properly. So, make sure it is working efficiently to avoid any associated trouble code.
6. Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor - The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is a relatively simple sensor that monitors the internal temperature of the engine. Faulty CTS will always lead to the associated trouble codes. Replace the faulty CTS in no time.

Below are the common symptoms for the code P0484. If you experience below mentioned symptoms please bring your vehicle to a reputable repair facility. If neglected it could develop into something much more serious fairly quickly.

• Overheated engine
• Improper functioning of AC
• Cooling fan may stay on all the time
• Illuminated check engine light

If you detect error code P0484 and the fans are not operating then the vehicle should not repaired as soon as possible as it may cause overheating which ultimately leads to engine damage or the engine to fail entirely. Repairs for this error code are not difficult and following repairs and replacements can actually help you to fix this code:

• Repair or replace the defective cooling fan
• Replace the faulty cooling fan motor
• Repair the damaged wiring, connectors or harnesses
• Repair or replace the inoperative coolant temperature sensor
• Replace the defective cooling fan relay

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Trouble code P0484 is not difficult to diagnose and repair but it always good to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle when this error code arises. Getting access to a known fix can save you time and money during diagnosis. Keep the below mentioned points in mind while fixing this code:

• Visually inspect all the wiring and electrical components and repair the damaged one.
• Perform a voltage and ground test on the cooling fan motor and cooling fan relay.
• Check the system fuses carefully. It should be tested for proper voltage.
• Repair or replace all the defected parts and clear the code and retest the system.
• If the code returns, diagnose all the sensors associated and replace the faulty ones.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0484 Code

To avoid any mistakes, do the diagnosis carefully and step by step. The common mistake usually people do while diagnosing is replacing the cooling fan motor that too without doing a thorough check wherein the actual culprit was cooling fan relay.