OBD-II diagnostic trouble code
P0481Caution
Cooling Fan 2 Control Circuit Malfunction
The secondary cooling fan's control circuit has failed, reducing cooling capacity under demanding conditions like towing or hot-weather traffic.
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Code names are compiled from open/standardized SAE and ISO references. Explanations, symptoms, causes and fixes are original. Covers generic (P0/C0/B0/U0) codes only — manufacturer-specific codes are planned for a future update.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0481?
You can usually keep driving with P0481, but don't put it off — the underlying cause can get worse or lead to further damage the longer it goes unaddressed. Get it diagnosed as soon as you reasonably can.
How much does it cost to fix P0481?
The cost varies too much by cause and vehicle to give a single figure here — a diagnosis will narrow it down.
What causes P0481?
Reviewed by Artyom SemenovAutomotive Editor · Fact-checked by Yauheni Kapliarchuk, Editor-in-Chief