P0659 Trouble Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Fixes

If your dashboard is suddenly flashing the P0659 trouble code, you’re probably looking for explanations, symptoms, and solutions.

This comprehensive guide will break down what this code means, why it appears, and how you can resolve it. You’re likely here because your car has flagged this error, and you need actionable advice on addressing it.

Having dealt with automotive diagnostics and repairs for several years, I’ve encountered and resolved the P0659 code multiple times.

In this article, we’ll delve specifically into the common symptoms associated with the P0659 code, what could potentially trigger it, and detailed, step-by-step repair instructions to help you fix the issue efficiently.

Now, let’s get under the hood and tackle this problem.

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What Does P0659 Trouble Code Mean?

Ever turned on your car, only to be greeted by the dreaded check engine light? If the scanner points to a P0659, you’re dealing with an “Actuator Supply Voltage ‘A’ Circuit High” issue.

Let’s not beat around the bush – this sounds technical, but I’ll break it down.

Your car is like a symphony, and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is the conductor, making sure everything runs in harmony.

The P0659 code pops up when the PCM finds that the voltage in the actuator supply circuit ‘A’ is higher than it should be.

Actuators, for those who might not know, are the workhorses that physically manage tasks like opening your intake manifold or moving gears in the transmission, based on the PCM’s commands.

But why does this matter?

High voltage can be a sign that the electrical pathway to the actuators isn’t as smooth as a Sunday drive.

This could mean there’s a short to power somewhere – a wire’s insulation might have worn off, exposing it to elements it shouldn’t touch, or a component could be failing and drawing too much power.

For our hands-on readers, this means it’s time to look under the hood or get a professional to do so. The PCM’s warning could save you from more significant issues down the road, like poor performance or even a no-start situation.

Remember, a P0659 isn’t just a number – it’s a heads-up from your car, telling you something’s not right in the electrical concert under your hood.

And like any good conductor, the PCM doesn’t want the music to stop.

P0659 Trouble Code Symptoms

When the P0659 trouble code appears, you may notice several distinct symptoms that can affect your vehicle’s performance. Here are the key signs to watch for:

• Engine light is on (this is a universal sign of an engine problem)
• Possible engine stalling or hesitation during operation
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Abnormal behavior in the vehicle’s electrical systems, such as issues with the dashboard or lights
• Unusual noises from the engine compartment when electrical accessories are in use
• Engine may run rough or inconsistently

P0659 Trouble Code Causes

The appearance of the P0659 trouble code can be attributed to several underlying issues within the vehicle’s electrical system. Common causes include:

• Faulty or damaged wiring and/or connectors in the actuator supply voltage circuit
• Poor electrical connections that involve the actuator supply voltage circuit
• Blown fuses that disrupt the circuit’s integrity
• Faulty control modules (such as the PCM or ECM) that fail to regulate voltage properly
• Malfunctioning actuators that cannot operate due to insufficient voltage
• Problems with the vehicle’s battery or charging system affecting overall voltage stability

How To Fix A P0659 Trouble Code

Fixing a P0659 trouble code involves a series of diagnostic steps followed by the necessary repairs to address the root cause of the problem. Here’s how you can diagnose and repair issues related to this code:

1. Check Engine Light and Codes

Begin by using an OBD-II scanner to confirm that the P0659 code is present along with any other codes that might have been triggered simultaneously.

2. Visual Inspection

Inspect all wiring and connectors linked to the actuator supply voltage circuit. Look for signs of damage like fraying, corrosion, or disconnections that might impede voltage flow.

3. Fuse Inspection

Check the fuses associated with the actuator supply voltage. Replace any blown fuses and retest the system to see if the trouble code returns.

4. Battery and Charging System Test

Ensure that the battery and alternator are functioning correctly and providing the required voltage to the system. A weak battery or faulty alternator can lead to numerous voltage-related codes.

5. Component Testing

Test the actuators and their related components to verify they are receiving sufficient voltage and functioning as expected. Utilize a multimeter to check the voltage outputs at various points in the circuit.

6. Repair or Replace Wiring

If damaged wiring or connectors are found during the diagnostic process, repair or replace them to ensure a solid electrical connection.

7. Replace Faulty Fuses

If a faulty fuse was found, replace it with a new one that matches the original specifications, and monitor the system for recurrence of the trouble code.

8. Component Replacement

Should tests indicate a malfunctioning actuator or control module (like the PCM or ECM), consider replacing these components to resolve the voltage issue.

9. Battery or Alternator Replacement

If the charging system tests reveal issues with the battery or alternator, replace these components to restore proper voltage levels throughout the vehicle’s electrical system.

After completing the necessary repairs, clear the trouble code from the system using an OBD-II scanner and conduct a road test to ensure that the issue has been resolved and the code does not reappear.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve covered what the P0659 trouble code means and how you can tackle it, you’re well-prepared to diagnose and fix this issue in your vehicle.

Have you encountered this code before, and if so, what fixed it for you?

Feel free to share your experiences in the comments! It’s great to learn from each other’s car troubles and solutions.