AutoCodes – Chrysler – P0491 Chrysler

P0491 Chrysler Code - Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 1

Quick Answer

An air pump is used on the vehicle to lower tail pipe emissions on start-up. Common causes include Intake leak, Damaged AIR system components, Faulty AIR Solenoid Valve. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0491 Chrysler indicates Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 1.
Common causes
Common causes include Intake leak, Damaged AIR system components, Faulty AIR Solenoid Valve.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,857
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 25, 2021
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Code P0491 Chrysler Description

An air pump is used on the vehicle to lower tail pipe emissions on start-up. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) grounds the Air pump relay control circuit which energizes the Air pump. The PCM also grounds the Air combination valve vacuum control solenoid circuit, which energizes the Air vacuum control solenoid. Vacuum is then applied to both Air combination valve diaphragms which opens the shut off valves. The PCM enables both circuits simultaneously when Air system operations id desired. When the AIR system is active, then Air pump forces fresh air into the exhaust stream in order to accelerate catalyst operation. The AIR combination valves replace the conventional check valves. When the AIR system is inactive the shut off valves prevent air flow in either direction.
OBDII Code P0491 Chrysler - Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com
P0491 Chrysler Code - Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0491 Chrysler?

  • Intake leak
  • Damaged AIR system components
  • Faulty AIR Solenoid Valve
  • Faulty AIR system relay

How to Fix the DTC P0491 Chrysler?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0491 Chrysler code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0491 Chrysler code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0491 Chrysler code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0491 Chrysler Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0491 mean on a Chrysler vehicle?

P0491 indicates "Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 1," meaning the engine control module (ECM) has detected insufficient airflow in the secondary air injection system on bank 1.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0491?

Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, poor engine performance, failed emissions tests, rough idling during cold starts, and a possible increase in exhaust emissions.

3. What causes the P0491 code on a Chrysler?

Common causes include a faulty secondary air injection pump, clogged or damaged air injection hoses, stuck or malfunctioning air injection check valves, or electrical issues such as damaged wiring or a blown fuse.

4. How does the secondary air injection system work in a Chrysler?

The secondary air injection system pumps fresh air into the exhaust to help burn off excess fuel and reduce emissions, especially during cold starts.

5. Can I drive my Chrysler with the P0491 code?

Driving with this code is generally safe in the short term, but it can lead to increased emissions and potentially damage the catalytic converter if left unaddressed.

6. How can I fix the P0491 code on my Chrysler?

Repairs may include cleaning or replacing the air injection pump, replacing clogged hoses or check valves, repairing damaged wiring, or replacing a blown fuse.

7. How do I diagnose the P0491 code?

Start by inspecting the air pump, hoses, and check valves for visible damage or clogging. Test the air pump for proper operation and check related electrical connections and fuses.

8. What tools are needed to diagnose P0491 on a Chrysler?

You'll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to test electrical circuits, and possibly tools for accessing and inspecting the air injection pump and valves.

9. How much does it cost to repair the P0491 code on a Chrysler?

Repair costs can vary, typically ranging from $100 to $500 depending on whether the issue is a faulty pump, valve, or another component.

10. Can a clogged catalytic converter cause the P0491 code on a Chrysler?

While not a common cause, a severely clogged catalytic converter can restrict airflow and potentially trigger this code.

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