AutoCodesHonda – P1659 Honda

P1659 Honda Code - Electronic Throttle Control System Control Relay OFF Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the throttle valve opening. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) Relay, Electronic Throttle Control System Relay harness is open or shorted, Electronic Throttle Control System Relay 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
P1659 Honda indicates Electronic Throttle Control System Control Relay OFF Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) Relay, Electronic Throttle Control System Relay harness is open or shorted, Electronic Throttle Control System Relay 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 150,416
How popular is this code, among other codes? High
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 26, 2024
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Code P1659 Honda Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the throttle valve opening. The system includes the throttle actuator, the throttle valve, Throttle Position (TP) sensors A and B, the Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor, the Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) control relay, and the PCM. The APP sensor is operated via the throttle cable to determine the accelerator opening value when the driver presses the accelerator pedal. The accelerator pedal opening value is converted to a signal in the APP sensor and transmitted to the PCM to compute the target position. The PCM determines the throttle valve target position according to the signal received and operates the throttle actuator to move the throttle valve to the target position. The actual throttle valve position is determined by TP sensor A (installed in the throttle body). When the voltage is applied from the ETCS control relay to the IG1ETCS terminal for a set time after the ETCS control relay is turned off, the PCM detects a malfunction in the ETCS control relay power switch, and a DTC is stored.
OBDII Code P1659 Honda - Electronic Throttle Control System Control Relay OFF Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P1659 Honda Code - Electronic Throttle Control System Control Relay OFF Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1659 Honda?

  • Faulty Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) Relay
  • Electronic Throttle Control System Relay harness is open or shorted
  • Electronic Throttle Control System Relay circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P1659 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

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1659 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.

Need more information about the P1659 Honda code?

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Information for Specific Honda Models

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1659 Honda Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1659 in a Honda?

- Common symptoms include engine stalling, rough idling, poor acceleration, and the vehicle going into limp mode.

2. What causes the Electronic Throttle Control System Control Relay OFF Malfunction (P1659) in a Honda?

- The P1659 code is typically triggered by a malfunction in the electronic throttle control system relay or related wiring issues.

3. How serious is the P1659 code in a Honda?

- The P1659 code can lead to unsafe driving conditions due to potential loss of throttle control, so it should be addressed promptly.

4. Can I drive my Honda with the P1659 code present?

- It is not recommended to drive your Honda with the P1659 code present, as it can cause engine performance issues and potentially lead to safety hazards.

5. How can I diagnose the P1659 code in my Honda?

- Diagnosing the P1659 code usually involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, followed by inspecting the electronic throttle control system relay and related components.

6. What are some repair tips for fixing the P1659 code in a Honda?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any loose or damaged wiring, replacing the electronic throttle control system relay, and ensuring proper connections.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the P1659 code in a Honda?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to address the P1659 code, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic due to the complexity of the electronic throttle control system.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P1659 code in a Honda?

- The cost of repairing the P1659 code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve parts replacement and labor costs.

9. Will resetting the OBDII code P1659 in my Honda make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the error, but if the underlying issue is not fixed, the code is likely to reappear.

10. Is the P1659 code specific to Honda vehicles only?

- The P1659 code related to the Electronic Throttle Control System Control Relay OFF Malfunction is commonly found in Honda vehicles, but similar issues may occur in other makes and models as well.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1659 Honda OBDII Code

  • In my Honda Civic 2006 if i press acelerator the car does not move and it moves by it self at 30 km/h only also during shifting gear it jerks. Computer test showes ECTS Off Malfunction.

  • I have a 2008 Honda Stepwagon Spada. if i press accelerator the van does not move and a Computer test shows ERROR p1659.

  • I got problem like ali ahmed any one can help any one know where is etcs relay off in Honda Civic 2008

  • I recommend start by replacing the ETCS Control Relay

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  • I have mobilio which show this code.. i try to locate the relay.. but unfortunatelly there is no information where the ETCS located.. can someone tell me where is the Etcs relay on honda mobilio. Thanks in advance

  • How about the location of the
    etcs relay on a 09 honda fit

  • Relay #7 in the relay box

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  • Thank you

  • I got problem like ali ahmed any one can help any one know where is etcs relay off in Honda Crv 2007, 2.4, AT

  • The Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) control relay is in the relay box

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  • Thank you, I will check as soon as it.

  • did you solve? I have the same problem

  • Please were located honda civc 2013 ETCS relay í

  • Just make sure we give you the correct location, what is the engine size of your Civic?

    Here is the location for the Civic with 1.8L engine

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  • hello @ODBIITech pls i have an ETCS relay malfunction on my Honda City 2009, pls can you guide me on the right relay to swap out

  • I don't have the manual for the 2009 Honda City, but here is the location for the Honda Fit, I think is the same. The Relay is in the Relay Box under the dash.

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  • Please ??, my Honda Civic 2012, throttle pedals isn’t picking up again after changing the inner fuse box. Many electricians are finding it difficult to fix as they don’t have knowledge on the vehicle. Please can I know the ETCS fuse and relay locations for this vehicle and if possible also get the right connection for the sockets on the inner fuse box? Will be deeply grateful ??

  • And please the engine size is 1.8

  • The ETCS relay is on the relay box behind the dash lower cover.

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  • I am having the same error code. Can you please tell the location of relay in Civic 2017 Sedan

  • I got this from the factory service manual, but to make sure to check the relay box lid. The relay is for the PGM-FI Relay

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  • i am having this problem and was trying to check the continuity from the relay to the pcm but do not know the exact pin diagram. can you please help? 2008 honda accord 2.4 L ex

  • it was the spark plugs.

  • Would you please show me where the TACM relay is located on a 2018 Honda Accord sport 1.5t.Thank you

  • For your 2018 Honda Accord sport 1.5t, the Throttle Motor is controlled by the PGM-FI Sub-Relay, which is part of the "Relay Circuit Board" (The Relay Circuit Board contains many relay circuits). The Relay Circuit Board is inside the fuse and relay box.

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  • thanks for the reply. I just opened the fuse box and there is 2 relay circuit boards. Would you have more info on this? or should I replace both circuit boards?

  • The bottom one, the other one is a control module

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  • Thank you so much!!

  • Plz help me with location of relay for code P1659 for Honda BRV 2020.right hand dive.

  • I have a 2013 honda civic that give p1659 code but can't locate the relay? Can you show location.
    Thanks

    • P1659 Code: ETC Power Relay Location and Diagnosis

      The P1659 code refers to a fault in the Electronic Throttle Control Power Relay (ETC Relay), which supplies power to the Electronic Throttle Control system.

      On your 2013 Honda Civic, the ETC Power Relay is located in the interior relay box, not in the engine compartment.

      Location of the ETC Power Relay

      1. Find the Interior Fuse/Relay Box:

        • The interior fuse/relay box is located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. You may need to remove a small panel or look up underneath the dashboard to access it.
      2. Remove the Fuse Box Cover:

        • Once located, carefully remove the cover to access the relays and fuses.
      3. Locate the ETC Power Relay:

        • Refer to the fuse box diagram, which is often printed on the cover or in the owner’s manual.
        • The ETC Power Relay may be labeled as ETC RELAY, THROTTLE CONTROL RELAY, or PGM-FI RELAY.

      Steps to Diagnose and Fix P1659

      1. Inspect the Relay:

        • Remove the ETC Power Relay and check for physical damage, corrosion, or burn marks.
        • Test the relay using a multimeter or swap it with another relay of the same type to see if the issue resolves.
      2. Inspect Wiring and Connections:

        • Check the wiring leading to and from the relay for damage, loose connections, or corrosion.
        • Ensure the connectors are securely attached.
      3. Check Related Fuses:

        • Verify that all fuses related to the throttle control system are intact and functioning.
      4. Inspect the Throttle Body:

        • Since the relay powers the throttle body, inspect the throttle body for proper operation. Look for:
          • Carbon buildup.
          • Loose or damaged connectors.
          • Faulty throttle position sensors.
      5. Reset the Code:

        • After repairing or replacing the faulty components, use an OBD-II scanner to clear the P1659 code and confirm if the problem is resolved.

      Additional Tips

      • If the issue persists after replacing the relay, it might indicate a fault in the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) or throttle body. These components may require professional diagnostics.
      • Always use the appropriate replacement relay as per your vehicle’s specifications.

      Let me know if you need further assistance!

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