AutoCodes – Generic – P1259

P1259 Code - VTEC System Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system activate the VTEC solenoid valve by the command from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and it charges/discharges the hydraulic circuit of the VTEC mechanism that is installed in the valve system to switch valve timing between Low and High. Common causes include Low engine oil level or oil pressure, Faulty Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) solenoid, VTEC Solenoid harness is open or shorted. 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: P1259 indicates VTEC System Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine oil level or oil pressure, Faulty Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) solenoid, VTEC Solenoid harness is open or shorted.
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.

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Code Popularity 18,542

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 21, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1259 Description

The Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system activate the VTEC solenoid valve by the command from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and it charges/discharges the hydraulic circuit of the VTEC mechanism that is installed in the valve system to switch valve timing between Low and High. The PCM monitors oil pressure conditions in the hydraulic circuit of the VTEC mechanism according to the VTEC oil pressure switch downstream of the VTEC solenoid valve. If there is a disparity between the oil pressure condition in the hydraulic circuit that is determined by the PCM command, and the oil pressure condition that is determined by the status of the VTEC oil pressure switch, the system is considered faulty and the P1259 code is stored.

OBDII Code P1259 - VTEC System Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P1259 Code - VTEC System Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1259?

Low engine oil level or oil pressure
Faulty Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) solenoid
VTEC Solenoid harness is open or shorted
VTEC circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty VTEC oil pressure switch

How to Fix the DTC P1259?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Make sure the oil level is good and it is not dirty, if the oil is dirty replace it with the correct oil weight. Dirty oil can clog the VTEC assembly so you might have to take it apart and clean it (and replace the seals).

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1259 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 P1259 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P1259 Acura — VTEC System Malfunction
P1259 Audi — Engine Coolant System Valve Short To Ground
P1259 Honda — VTEC System Malfunction
P1259 Isuzu — VTEC System Malfunction
P1259 Volkswagen — Engine Coolant System Valve Short To Ground

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.