AutoCodes – Generic – P1486

P1486 Code - Cooling System Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Thermistor (ECT) is a 2-wire thermistor. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Insufficient warm uptime, Leaking or stuck open thermostat. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P1486 indicates Cooling System Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Insufficient warm uptime, Leaking or stuck open thermostat.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

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Code Popularity 22,986

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 08, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1486 Description

The Engine Coolant Thermistor (ECT) is a 2-wire thermistor. As Engine coolant temperature increases, thermistor resistance & signal voltage decreases. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors ECT voltage to help determine injector pulse width, ignition timing, and idle control. The Transmission Control Module (TCM)/ECM uses ECT voltage for shift timing & quality. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates that the thermostat monitor has not achieved the required engine operating temperature within a specified amount of time after starting the engine.

OBDII Code P1486 - Cooling System Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P1486 Code - Cooling System Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1486?

Low engine coolant level
Insufficient warm uptime
Leaking or stuck open thermostat
Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor
Engine coolant temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine coolant temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1486?

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 P1486 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 P1486 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P1486 Acura — Cooling System Malfunction
P1486 Chrysler — EVAP System Pinched Hose Found
P1486 Dodge — EVAP System Pinched Hose Found
P1486 Honda — Cooling System Malfunction
P1486 Hyundai — EGR Solenoid Valve Vent Open or Short
P1486 Jeep — EVAP System Pinched Hose Found
P1486 KIA — EGR Solenoid Valve Vent Open or Short
P1486 Mazda — EGRV Circuit Out Of Range
P1486 Mitsubishi — EVAP Leak Monitor Pinched Hose Found
P1486 RAM — EVAP System Pinched Hose Found

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.