P1696 - FAULT CODE - OBD2

P1696 Code failures by brands

P1696 ACURA, HONDA: TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM LOW VOLTAGE

Description of DTC code P1696

The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and EBCM (Electronic Brake Control Module) work together to control the Traction Control System. The PCM, in turn, reduces the torque sent to the drive wheels after retarding spark timing and selectively disabling the injectors. The EBCM has the function of applying the brakes to the front wheels, significantly reducing torque.

The EBCM requests the required torque from the PCM based on a PWM (Pulse Width Modulated) signal. A duty cycle varying from 10 to 90% is used to calculate the torque needed by the EBCM, being at its highest value during traction control deactivation at higher values when the system is activated. The PCM sends 5 reference volts switched to the ground by the EBCM to create the signal.

When the P1696 OBD2 diagnostic code is set on Acura and Honda vehicles it is because excessively low voltages were detected in the Traction Control System, a condition that is interpreted as a malfunction.

Symptoms of fault code P1696

Check Engine light illuminated.

Causes of OBD2 P1696

The reasons for storing the P1696 OBDII fault code are:

The Traction Control System may have deficiencies in the wiring or connectors.
The Traction Control System connections may have been damaged causing the low voltages.
A Traction Control System controller may be defective.

Possible solutions of the DTC code P1696

In order to resolve the DTC P1696 OBD2 code consider the following:

As a first step consult the TSBs.
Check the wiring and connectors of the Traction Control System for common damages such as burns or corrosion. If you detect such conditions or other damage, proceed with repairs.
Check the Traction Control System circuit voltages to see if they match the manufacturer's specifications. If you discover large differences, make the appropriate corrections.