When the radiator can’t cool the engine on its own, the cooling fan kicks in. The fan increases the amount of air flowing over the radiator, which helps remove more heat from the coolant. If the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) detects that the cooling fan is not spinning as required, its diagnostics will log a P0495 code.
What Does the P0495 Code Mean?
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0495 stands for “Fan Speed High.”
Most cooling fans are located on the radiator or at the front of the engine. They activate when the radiator needs more airflow to get rid of the heat. This can happen during hot days and stop-and-go traffic.
The PCM or ECM keeps track of the cooling fan’s operation. It activates the fan when the temperature continues to rise despite the radiator’s best efforts to cool the engine. Once the temperature goes down, the computer will turn off the fan.
The vehicle’s computer monitors the speed at which the fan spins. If the fan is running at high speeds and going beyond the manufacturer’s set parameters, the PCM or ECM will set the powertrain code P0495.
Note: The definition of code P0495 can differ according to the vehicle manufacturer. Check the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.
What are the Common Causes of the P0495 Code?
- Bad engine cooling fan or Electro-Viscous clutch
- Faulty engine cooling fan relay
- Bad PCM/ECM
- Wiring problems
What are the Common Symptoms of the P0495 Code?
- Activated check engine light
- Non-operational A/C
- Continuously running cooling fans
- Engine runs too hot
How to Diagnose the P0495 Code
The P0495 code is a generic DTC, which means vehicles made by various automakers can log it. However, that doesn’t mean that the process to diagnose it is the same across different makes and models. The steps for this code’s diagnosis can vary per vehicle.
So if you’re not confident about conducting diagnostic tests on your vehicle, it’s best to leave the job to professionals. Otherwise, you can diagnose the problem on your own. To help you get started, here is a video that may give you an idea of what the process might involve:
How to Fix the P0495 Code
Attempting to fix a P0495 code can become a frustrating task if you don’t have the right tools and know-how. So it’s usually best to let licensed mechanics handle the issue.
But if you’re confident you can repair the problem on your own, make sure you have everything you need before starting. Consult a vehicle-specific repair manual or an online repair database.
Get a Replacement Cooling Fan Relay
Dealing with the P0495 code can be a hassle, but it isn’t the worst thing that a faulty cooling fan relay can cause. Damaged cooling fan relays can prevent the cooling fan from working, causing the engine to overheat. This can cause irreparable damage to your vehicle, so it’s best to stop driving until you can replace the cooling fan relay. Thankfully, getting a brand-new cooling fan relay is fast and easy with CarParts.com.
CarParts.com offers a wide selection of high-quality cooling fan relays that are sourced from only the most trusted manufacturers in the industry. We’re also committed to providing you with a hassle-free shopping experience from start to finish, so you can enjoy a convenient and secure checkout. Thanks to our strategically located warehouses around the US, you can get back on the road as soon as possible. Order by 12 PM ET and you can expect your new cooling fan relay to arrive in as fast as two business days.
Don’t wait until your cooling fan relay completely breaks before replacing it. Check out our selection of high-quality cooling fan relays at CarParts.com and order one for your vehicle today!
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.