AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P1286 Chevrolet

P1286 Chevrolet Code - Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 3 Circuit Performance

Quick Answer

The Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensors are located within the Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module assembly. Common causes include Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP), Accelerator Pedal Position harness is open or shorted, Accelerator Pedal Position circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P1286 Chevrolet indicates Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 3 Circuit Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP), Accelerator Pedal Position harness is open or shorted, Accelerator Pedal Position circuit poor electrical connection.
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 10,244

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 05, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1286 Chevrolet Description

The Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensors are located within the Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module assembly. The TAC module assembly is mounted to the accelerator pedal bracket. There are 3 individual APP sensors within the TAC module. Three separate signal circuits, low reference circuits, and 5-volt reference circuits are used in order to determine the accelerator pedal position. The APP sensor signal voltages increase when the accelerator pedal is depressed.

OBDII Code P1286 Chevrolet - Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 3 Circuit Performance - AutoCodes.com — P1286 Chevrolet Code - Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 3 Circuit Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1286 Chevrolet?

Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP)
Accelerator Pedal Position harness is open or shorted
Accelerator Pedal Position circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1286 Chevrolet?

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 P1286 Chevrolet 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.

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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 P1286 Chevrolet Code

What does OBDII code P1286 mean for a Chevrolet?

Code P1286 indicates a performance issue with the Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 3 (APP Sensor 3) circuit, which monitors the position of the accelerator pedal.

What are the symptoms of code P1286 in a Chevrolet?

Symptoms may include reduced engine power, unresponsive acceleration, activation of the check engine light, and, in some cases, the vehicle entering "limp mode."

What causes code P1286 to appear on a Chevrolet?

Common causes include a faulty APP Sensor 3, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or issues with the vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM).

Can I drive my Chevrolet with code P1286?

Driving with code P1286 is not recommended, as it can cause erratic acceleration, reduced power, and safety concerns. It's best to address the issue promptly.

How do I diagnose code P1286 on a Chevrolet?

Start by inspecting the APP Sensor 3 and its wiring for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test the sensor's voltage and continuity. Scan the ECM for related codes to narrow down the issue.

How is code P1286 fixed on a Chevrolet?

Repairs often involve replacing the faulty APP Sensor 3, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM if necessary.

How much does it cost to fix code P1286 on a Chevrolet?

The repair cost can range from $100 to $500, depending on whether the issue is with the sensor, wiring, or ECM.

Can a dirty throttle body cause code P1286 in a Chevrolet?

A dirty throttle body is unlikely to directly cause P1286, but it can contribute to throttle-related issues. Cleaning the throttle body may help resolve related symptoms.

Does code P1286 require reprogramming the ECM on a Chevrolet?

Reprogramming the ECM is not always necessary, but it may be required if the ECM is malfunctioning or after replacing it.

How can I prevent code P1286 from reoccurring in my Chevrolet?

Regular maintenance, such as checking and cleaning electrical connections and inspecting the APP sensor and wiring for wear, can help prevent P1286 from reoccurring.