P0694 OBD-II Trouble Code: Fan 2 Control Circuit High

P0694 code definition

The P0694 trouble code indicates that the vehicle's electric cooling fan control circuit has had an irregular voltage level registered by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

What the P0694 code means

The PCM keeps track of voltage levels in a wide array of vehicle components, including the electric cooling fan. Although the particulars may vary depending on the model and manufacturer, the PCM will typically report a trouble code if the circuit voltage falls more than 10% away from the manufacturer specifications.

What causes the P0694 code?

In the majority of cases, a faulty cooling fan motor or relay is to blame for a P0694 trouble code. However, the code may also be the result of electrical issues, including corroded or faulty electrical connectors and shorted wiring. It is also possible that the engine coolant temperature sensor itself is faulty, and may be reporting false information to the PCM as a result.

What are the symptoms of the P0694 code?

Fortunately, a P0964 trouble code is relatively insignificant, and will also pose minor issues to the vehicle if any. In the majority of reported cases, no practical symptoms are reported. If any problems are present, the engine may overheat and the air conditioner may not work as well as it should. Also, for the sake of diagnosing the problem, the dashboard trouble light will be illuminated and the P0694 trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0694 code?

• To start, a mechanic should scan the vehicle's computer with an OBD-II code reader in order to pick up the P0964 code, as well as any other issues registered via the PCM

• If the P0964 has been verified, the electrical cooling circuit should be inspected for any visible signs of fault, disconnection or damage

• The electrical cooling fan motor and relay should be looked at thoroughly and tested to ensure they are working properly

• Any system-related wiring (including electrical connectors) should also be checked out for signs of potential issues

• If all components are shown to be working, the sensor should be inspected for potential signs of fault

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0694 code

Although a faulty cooling fan motor is most often to blame for a P0694 code, it is sometimes mistakenly replaced instead of diagnosing the real problem. Generic issues with electrical wiring may account for the code, as well as a false report from a faulty sensor. Technicians recommend inspecting the cooling fan relay for signs of fault; this component is notorious for being recalled by the manufacturer.

How serious is the P0694 code?

Although an advanced P0964 scenario may increase wear on your engine and limit air conditioner efficiency, it has no effect on the drivability of the vehicle itself. With this in mind, it should be seen as a mild issue. Any subsequent repairs should be seen as non-urgent.

What repairs can fix the P0694 code?

• If any of the cooling fan-related components (motor, relay, resistor) have been identified as faulty, they should be repaired or replaced as is needed.

• Any corroded, broken or shorted electrical circuitry should be fixed.

• If there have been electrical issues, cooling fan-related fuses may be blown, and will have to be replaced as a result.

• Following any repairs, the system should be checked again to see if the trouble code returns.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0694 code

Some vehicle models may require multiple drive cycles before the P0694 trouble code is logged. There is a very rare possibility that the P0694 trouble code may be caused by a faulty PCM. However, due to the high expense associated with repairing or replacing a PCM as well as the rarity of the issue, it should only be seen as a last-ditch possibility when all other conceivable scenarios have been exhausted.

Need help with a P0694 code?

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