AutoCodes – Acura – P1279 Acura

P1279 Acura Code - VTEC System Malfunction Front Bank 2

Quick Answer

The VTEC system activates the VTEC solenoid valve by 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 pressure or level, Open or short circuit condition, Faulty VTEC oil pressure switch. 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: P1279 Acura indicates VTEC System Malfunction Front Bank 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine oil pressure or level, Open or short circuit condition, Faulty VTEC oil pressure switch.
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 5,383

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 28, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1279 Acura Description

The VTEC system activates the VTEC solenoid valve by 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 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 a DTC is stored.

OBDII Code P1279 Acura - VTEC System Malfunction Front Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com — P1279 Acura Code - VTEC System Malfunction Front Bank 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1279 Acura?

Low engine oil pressure or level
Open or short circuit condition
Faulty VTEC oil pressure switch
Faulty VTEC solenoid

How to Fix the DTC P1279 Acura?

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 P1279 Acura 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.