Cooling Fan Circuit Over Current
The PCM has detected excessive current draw in the cooling fan control circuit, indicating either a short to power, short to ground, or a faulty cooling fan module. This code prevents the fans from operating normally, risking engine overheating under load or in traffic.
What You Might Notice
- Engine running hotter than normal or temperature gauge reading high
- Cooling fans not operating or running continuously
- Check engine light illuminated
- Possible loss of air conditioning functionality
- Engine may overheat during idle or stop-and-go driving
Most Common Causes
- 1
Faulty cooling fan module
The cooling fan motor or internal relay in the module has failed, causing excessive current draw that triggers the PCM's over-current protection.
- 2
Short to power on fan control circuit
Damaged wiring harness or connector between the PCM and cooling fan module has shorted to positive voltage, causing continuous current flow.
- 3
Short to ground on fan control circuit
The fan control wire is grounded either through damaged insulation or a faulty connector, creating a direct short that exceeds safe current limits.
- 4
Faulty PCM
The engine control module's fan control circuit or output driver has failed, though this is less common than cooling fan module failure.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Check Faulty cooling fan module — The cooling fan motor or internal relay in the module has failed, causing excessive current draw that triggers the PCM's over-current protection.
- 2
Check Short to power on fan control circuit — Damaged wiring harness or connector between the PCM and cooling fan module has shorted to positive voltage, causing continuous current flow.
- 3
Check Short to ground on fan control circuit — The fan control wire is grounded either through damaged insulation or a faulty connector, creating a direct short that exceeds safe current limits.
- 4
Check Faulty PCM — The engine control module's fan control circuit or output driver has failed, though this is less common than cooling fan module failure.
How to Fix It
- 1
Replace cooling fan module
Locate the cooling fan module mounted behind the radiator in front of the engine. Disconnect the electrical connector and mounting bolts, then install a new OEM or quality aftermarket module and reconnect all wiring.
- 2
Inspect and repair fan control wiring
Check the wiring harness between the PCM and cooling fan module for damage, corrosion, or exposed conductors. Repair any damaged sections by replacing the affected wire segment or entire harness if heavily damaged.
- 3
Test and replace PCM if necessary
After ruling out the cooling fan module and wiring, use a diagnostic scanner to verify PCM output voltage at the fan connector. If output is abnormal, the PCM may require replacement or reflashing.
- 4
Monitor engine temperature during testing
After repairs, clear the code and monitor the temperature gauge during multiple drive cycles including idle, city driving, and highway speeds to confirm the cooling system operates properly.
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