AutoCodes – Generic – P1256

P1256 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 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: P1256 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 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 21,919

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 15, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1256 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. The ECM sets the OBDII code when the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code P1256 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive - AutoCodes.com — P1256 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1256?

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 P1256?

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 P1256 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 P1256 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1256 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1256 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1256 Audi — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive
P1256 Ford — Pedal Correlation PDS1 and HPDS
P1256 Volkswagen — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive

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.