AutoCodes – Generic – P1296

P1296 Code - Engine Cooling System Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat. 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: P1296 indicates Engine Cooling System Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat.
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 22,856

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 11, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1296 Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The modified signal returns to the ECM as the engine coolant temperature input. The sensor uses a thermistor which is sensitive to the change in temperature. The electrical resistance of the thermistor decreases as temperature increases.

OBDII Code P1296 - Engine Cooling System Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P1296 Code - Engine Cooling System Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1296?

Low engine coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
Faulty engine coolant thermostat
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor electrical circuit poor connection

How to Fix the DTC P1296?

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 P1296 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 P1296 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1296 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1296 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1296 Audi — Engine Cooling System Malfunction
P1296 Chevrolet — Injector Circuit High To Low Current Transition Time Bank 2
P1296 Chrysler — No 5 Volt Reference Voltage To Manifold Absolute Pressure
P1296 Dodge — No 5 Volt Reference Voltage To Manifold Absolute Pressure
P1296 Ford — Multiple Faults Bank 2 With Low Side Shorts
P1296 GMC — Injector Circuit High To Low Current Transition Time Bank 2
P1296 Mitsubishi — No 5 Volts to MAP Sensor
P1296 RAM — No 5 Volt Reference Voltage To Manifold Absolute Pressure
P1296 Volkswagen — Engine Cooling System Malfunction

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.