How to Fix P0480 Code On Cummins? (Complete Solutions)

If you are a Cummins vehicle owner, you may see different Diagnostic Trouble Codes. Among these codes, p0480 is a major one. This code will help you identify the exact problem your car is facing.

The code p0480 on Cummins vehicle means a fault with the electric cooling fan 1 or its control circuit. A cooling fan powered by electricity is used by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Hence, whenever the fan faces any issues, PCM can find them out.

Notably, if you notice this code on your Cummins vehicle, you have to take the necessary steps as soon as possible. And this article will outline the steps you should take, the cost of repairing the code, and all other relevant information. Keep reading to find out more.

P0480 Code On Cummins

What Does Code P0480 Mean For Cummins?

The code p0480 is a generic OBD2 code that represents the trouble on the engine of the Cummins vehicle. It means the engine is facing an issue with the electric cooling fan or the control circuit of the fan.

The cooling fan activates with the help of PCM whenever excessive temperature occurs in the Cummins vehicle’s engine. But if the PCM can’t get the necessary amount of voltage, it will show the code p0480. And the code appears on the dashboard of your vehicle’s computer.

However, let’s look at the breakdown of the code p0480 to get a clear concept of the issue.

  • p= Powertrain trouble code for Cummins engine
  • 0= It means intake valve control solenoid circuit low
  • 4= This code means the malfunction of the 02 sensor heater circuit
  • 80= It represents the malfunction with the distributor engine speed (In our case, it means the stuck-off issue of the cooling fan)

How Serious Is The P0480 Code On Cummins?

The code p0480 is awful for your Cummins vehicles. So, you must take the necessary steps immediately after noticing this code.

Your vehicle will face engine performance issues. The engine will not perform efficiently. On the contrary, the Cummins vehicle will not start regularly. It may take a long time to start your vehicle.

On the other hand, if you let the vehicle become overheated, it can create serious issues. Even you may not be able to drive your automotive. And because of the overheating, the engine can be damaged.

Notably, you can’t drive the vehicle in a severe case of the code p0480. So, be aware of this code.

What Causes The P0480 Code On Cummins?

Experts identify many causes responsible for the code p0480 on Cummins vehicles. A faulty fan control relay is frequently to blame. Besides, many more reasons are presented here.

  • Defective fan control relay
  • Loose electrical connection on the circuit of the cooling fan
  • Bad pressure switch
  • Harness or shortness on the fan control relay
  • Malfunction of VSS
  • Defective cooling fan 1
  • Damaged temperature sensor
  • Damaged or broken wires
  • Issues with PCM
  • Problem with power module

How To Fix P0480 Code On Cummins?

You may fall into confusion while resolving the code p0480. Hence, you have to fix the code step by step. And you should not leave a single step. Otherwise, you will face further difficulties. We have divided the fixing process into two sections. Let’s explore them.

Diagnosing:

Diagnosing the exact issue should be your first responsibility. But the question is, how can you analyze the code p0480. So don’t worry! Here is the step-by-step diagnosing process.

Step 1: Scan the code

Get a scanner to scan the code. Then, scan it efficiently. Take notes of crucial data such as RPM, coolant temp, etc. Find out the root cause of the code.

Step 2: Visually inspect

After that, you can inspect the cooling fan visually. Carefully check the overall operation process of the fan. Inspect any damaged or broken wires. Make sure that the VSS has proper readings.

Step 3: Control relay and pressure switch

Lastly, you have to check the control relay of the cooling fan and the AC pressure switch. Find out any errors with these things.

Repair and replace to Fix the Code:

After diagnosing the exact issue, you must take the necessary steps immediately. Let’s learn what issues you can take.

Step 1: Replace cooling fan 1

If you find the cooling fan issue, you have to replace it. Get a new cooling fan and replace it with the help of an expert.

Step 2: Repair connection and wires

You may notice that the issue is present with the electrical connection or the wires of the cooling fan. Then, you should repair the connection and change the broken cables.

Step 3: Replace the pressure switch

When the trouble is with the AC pressure switch, you must change it. Get a new AC pressure switch and attach it firmly.

Step 4: Replace the fan control relay.

The fan control relay is another crucial thing. You have to replace the cooling fan control relay of your Cummins vehicle. Get another compatible control relay.

Step 5: Palace VSS and Coolant temp sensor

At the same time, you may find fault with the VSS sensor or the coolant temp sensor. Replace these things to turn back the golden days of your Cummins vehicle.

Step 6: Get some common components.

Sometimes, the issue can take place because of some ordinary components. Among these components, broken or bent connector pins are common. So, replace them.

Never try to jump to the next step before configuring the previous one.

Other Symptoms Of Getting P0480 Code On Cummins

Here is a list of other symptoms that your Cummins vehicle can face.

  • Not starting the car
  • Engine misfiring
  • Check engine lights come on
  • The temperature of the vehicle can be raised extremely
  • Emission test failure
  • Decreasing the fuel economy
  • Engine performance issue
  • Explosion on acceleration

How Much Does It Cost To Fix P0480 Code On Cummins?

You have to pay around 75$ t0 150$ to diagnose the code p0480 on your Cummins vehicle. Indeed, the cost of diagnosing depends on the model of the automotive and the seriousness of the issue.

On the other hand, the repair cost depends on the components you need to replace. But the average cost is about 1000$ to replace the cooling fan and other common components.

Can You Drive Your Cummins With Code P0480?

Because of the code p0480, the Cummins vehicle can be heated extremely. In this case, you should not drive your automotive. Otherwise, you can face any further issues.

Besides, you can face engine misfire, sudden stopping, and engine parts damaging issues. Hence, experts recommend sending your Cummins vehicle to the service center as soon as possible.

Conclusion

With this trouble code, you will not feel comfortable driving your Cummins vehicle. Notably, it is not impossible to face an accident if you don’t take timely steps.

However, I hope you are no longer confused about the code p0480 and its associated factors. Now, you need to diagnose the code to determine the exact reason responsible for the code. Then, you should take the necessary steps to resolve the issue.

Importantly, never hesitate to visit an expert mechanic to fix the code. And to avoid further suffering, you should not drive your Cummins vehicle with the code p0480.

Good luck! 

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