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B1280 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Servo Motor Potentiometer Coolair Circuit Failure". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The B1280 trouble code detects an error with the servo motor potentiometer coolair circuit.
The B1280 code is a generic OBD-II trouble code that notes a malfunction with the servo motor potentiometer cool air circuit. The potentiometer acts as a voltage divider for the cool air system, and therefore allows the air to be adjusted. If a circuit error is detected in the servo motor potentiometer, then the B1280 trouble code may be stored.
Some causes for the B1280 trouble code include:
The B1280 trouble code may be joined by an illuminated check engine soon Warning Light, or a blinking A/C light on the climate controls. The vehicle will usually experience problems with the climate control system, such as an inability to produce cold air through the vents.
The B1280 code will be diagnosed with the aid of an OBD-II trouble code scanner. A reputable technician will use the scanner to view the freeze frame data and gather information about the B1280 code. The mechanic will also check to see if any other trouble codes are present. If multiple codes are detected, then they will need to be diagnosed in the order in which the scanner displays them. The mechanic will then reset the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and check for the presence of the B1280 code. If the code is no longer detected, then it was likely triggered inaccurately, or is the result of an intermittent issue.
If the code is still detected after the reset, then a visual inspection will be performed on the electrical components in the system. Any wires that are shorted or damaged, connectors that are open or corroded, or fuses that are blown will need to be replaced. The servo motor and potentiometer will then be inspected.
After any part is replaced, the mechanic will reset the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and again check to see if the B1280 code is present. By doing this, the technician will know as soon as the B1280 code is resolved.
The most frequently made mistake when diagnosing this code comes from not properly following the OBD-II diagnosis protocol. It is extremely important that technicians always comply with the protocol, as it helps ensure a diagnosis that is efficient and devoid of erroneous repairs.
Fully functional potentiometers and servo motors are often replaced when the only issue was a damaged wire or connector.
A vehicle with the B1280 trouble code will still be drivable, and won’t experience any drivability problems. The climate control system may not work well, and the vehicle may not be able to produce cold air, so the vehicle should be inspected as soon as is convenient.
Repairs for the B1280 trouble code include:
It is very rare for a defective control module to be the cause of the B1280 trouble code. Mechanics should always inspect all potential causes before a controller is assumed to be faulty. In the event that the PCM, climate control module, or body control module does need to be replaced, then it will also need to be reprogrammed.
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