P1486 Honda 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 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
- P1486 Honda indicates Cooling System Malfunction.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Insufficient warm uptime, Leaking or stuck open 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.
Code P1486 Honda Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1486 Honda?
- 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 Honda?
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.
Code Tech Notes
When troubleshooting a 2000-2001 Accord or 2001-2002 Civic, if the PGM Tester tells you there is a DTC P0128 (Cooling System Malfunction) or P1486 (Cooling System Malfunction) set, it's really reporting the same thing. DTC P0128 is an SAE or generic Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) while P1486 is a manufacturer-specific DTC. Since these DTCs are similar, the PGM Tester sometimes reports a P0128 when it detects a P1486 or vice versa.
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P1486 Honda 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P1486 Honda Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1486 in a Honda related to a cooling system malfunction?
The common symptoms include overheating of the engine, coolant leaks, and the cooling fans not operating properly.
2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1486 in a Honda?
The code P1486 in a Honda is typically triggered by issues such as a faulty cooling fan relay, a malfunctioning cooling fan motor, or a problem with the engine coolant temperature sensor.
3. How can I diagnose the cooling system malfunction causing OBDII code P1486 in my Honda?
You can diagnose the issue by checking the cooling fan operation, testing the cooling fan relay, inspecting the cooling fan motor, and verifying the engine coolant temperature sensor's performance using a diagnostic tool.
4. What are the repair options for addressing OBDII code P1486 in a Honda?
Repair options may include replacing the cooling fan relay, fixing or replacing the cooling fan motor, or replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, depending on the specific cause of the cooling system malfunction.
5. Can I continue driving my Honda with OBDII code P1486 related to a cooling system malfunction?
It is not recommended to continue driving your Honda with this code as it can lead to engine overheating and potentially cause severe damage. It's best to address the issue promptly.
6. How serious is OBDII code P1486 in a Honda?
OBDII code P1486 related to a cooling system malfunction is a serious issue that can result in engine overheating if not addressed promptly. Ignoring this code can lead to costly repairs.
7. Are there any preventative maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code P1486 in a Honda?
Regularly inspecting the cooling system components, such as the cooling fan, relay, and engine coolant temperature sensor, and ensuring they are in good working condition can help prevent OBDII code P1486 from occurring.
8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1486 in a Honda?
Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to address OBDII code P1486 by replacing components like the cooling fan relay or engine coolant temperature sensor. However, complex issues may require professional intervention.
9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P1486 in a Honda?
The repair time for OBDII code P1486 can vary depending on the specific cause of the cooling system malfunction. Simple fixes like replacing a relay may take less than an hour, while more complex issues could require several hours or more.
10. Will resetting the OBDII code P1486 in a Honda make the issue go away permanently?
Resetting the code without addressing the underlying cause, such as a cooling system malfunction, will only temporarily clear the code. The issue will likely reoccur until the root cause is identified and fixed.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P1486 Honda OBDII Code
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I got the P1486 on my 2000 Accord about 2 weeks ago. The dealer who got the code for me asked for $210 in orderr for them to tell me what needs to be done to correct the problem. I was not thrilled then decided to take the car to another dealer. The 2nd dealer asked for $160 but said that the $160 can be applied toward to the eventual repair cost. I agreed to move forward and was told 3 hours later that I need to have the ECM replaced (according to the Honda Service Bulletin 01-022, the replacement ECM is one with updated software). Since I was paying $160, I asked the service adviser what they did to reach that conclusion. I was shown the Honda Service Bulletin 01-022 dated Nov. 23, 2005, it has a paragraph saying "some very specific driving/ambient temperature conditions can cause the ECM/PCM to set DTC P0128 or P1486 when there isn't a problem with the vehicle." Combining the info from this paragraph and prior knowledge about the car computer, I felt unlike some manufacturers that the Honda ECM doesn't clear the check engine light even when the problem is no longer there. I didn't agree to replacing the ECM as I felt the dealer was trying to rip me off. Once got home, I decide to "reset" the ECM by disconnecting the battery. After doing so, the check engine light went off. After a test drive, the light stayed off.
My conclusion here:
1. The Honda Service Bulletin 01-022 has only one correction action which is to replace the ECM. Based on the paragraph saying "some very specific driving/ambient temperature conditions can cause the ECM/PCM to set DTC P0128 or P1486 when there isn't a problem with the vehicle", another much simpler corrective action is exactly what I did: RESET THE ECM to clear the code stored.2. Although the bulletin does explicitly state for car out of warranty, Honda may pay for the repair as goodwill following certain steps. The dealer failed to offer such options.
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