P0480 - MAL COOLING FAN 1 CONTROL CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION

The diagnostic code P0480 is applied to the motor cooling fan circuit. When the car is running, the necessary amount of air passes through the radiator. When a stop is made and no air circulates to the engine, the temperature starts to rise.

The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects this temperature increase through the CTS (Coolant Temperature Sensor), which is located near the thermostat. If the temperature reaches 223 degrees ° F, the PCM directs the cooling fan relay to turn on the fan, which is connected by a supply from the ground to the relay.

If there is a fault within the fan circuit (and thus the motor overheats at a slow speed, since the PCM attempts to activate the fan), the result is the DTC code P0480.

• The Check Engine light is on.
• There is overheating at the time the vehicle slows down or is not running.

A Generic OBDII code P0480 can generally be produced by the following faults:

• The fan control relay may be defective.
• Cable system of the fan relay may be in short circuit.
• Defective cooling fan.
• Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS), may be presenting faults.
• There is a bad electrical connection in the cooling circuit of the fan.
• Problems with the IAT (Intake Air Temperature).
• Incorrect operation of the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

To fix the DTC code P0480 you can check the following components:

• Perform a visual inspection, opening the hood and see the fan, make sure that the radiator does not have any obstructing object, thus blocking the flow of air. Then turn the fan cautiously, if it does not turn, it indicates that the bearing has shot and possibly the fan is defective.
• Check the electrical connections of the fan, make sure there are no signs of deterioration. Repair if necessary.
• Clear the DTC from the PCM memory with an automotive scanner.