P0480 and no-start condition

[STEVEBROOKS]

Done some research of old threads, and there're references to a P0480 code contributing to a no-start condition. I'd like to hear from anybody who had a no-start condition with that code present, then corrected the cause of the code (please also tell what the corrective action was) and then their truck started properly.

Thanks,

Steve

 

[cerberusiam]

The P0480 is a fan control circuit error. Should not cause a no start without lots of other codes. Disconnect the fan harness on the lower left bottom of the fan shroud to see if that changes anything. If not the fan is not the issue.

 

[STEVEBROOKS]

Haven't had time to unplug the harness or check for any broken/chafed wires, etc. Truck did start after long cranking after the block heater was plugged in for 6 hrs (I'm aware of the MANY posts on this subject with the '03s). At engine start, the fan clutch was engaged and the fan spun loudly/quickly for approx 3 minutes, then slowed down quite a bit, but never did fully stop spinning. Is this normal operation? Outside air temp was approx 45 degrees. After shutting the truck down, the code P0480 was still there (along with P0514).

Steve

 

[Zshaw]

I'm experiencing this code as well, along with many other voltage related codes. I was told that after my alternator failed, it probably had a voltage spike and fried the ECM. The truck still runs ok it just has a slow crank & lights up ABS & park brake lights randomly. The codes are: p0237, p2509, p2607, p0541 & p0480.

 

[STEVEBROOKS]

My slow-start condition was caused by worn injectors. Replaced them last summer, and truck's been flawless since then.

Steve

 

[Prairie Dog]

A failed fan can cause all sorts of problems because it can (and often does) short out the data bus. Unplugging it will take it out of the circuit but you need to replace it. Buy only the Mopar replacement part as the others will cause problems.

 

[Zshaw]

I replaced the fan, both batteries, grid heater solenoids & checked all wiring & cleaned all ground points. Cleared all codes & drove a few miles. Dash lights & chime goes crazy when I turn the a/c on. Only 3 codes now: p0480=cooling fan 1 control circuit malfunction & p0541/p2607=intake air heater relays 1&2 low voltage. I'm stumped...

 

[cerberusiam]

Did you check the AC activation wire carefully to make sure it is not rubber thru and grounding on something?

 

[Zshaw]

Thank you very much for all the help. Just 2 codes now, low voltage at intake air heater relays 1&2.

Injectors are fairly new with just 24,000 mi. This is a noticeable slow crank, like weak batteries, even though I replaced both with new interstates. The engine starts right up, just a noticeable change in sound of cranking speed.

I will try unplugging the fan to see if that helps.

Im in the process of checking the a/c wires & connections.

 

[cerberusiam]

If you have a slow crank and the batteries are known good, cables or starter is the next stop. With the codes and problems I would be checking all cables, grounds, and power points to the ECU for corrosion. One bad connection is enough to cause ghost codes and problems with the ECU.

 

[Wayne M.]

Bringing this one up front.
I have been battling fan clutch wire corrosion on the clutch side for 3 years now. Now I think the harness is rubbing through on the shroud bracket and maybe causing issues. I've cut back the protective sleeve to splice fresh wire. Of course I have P0480, and a phantom P2121. I've decided to get a new clutch. Has anyone used any aftermarket items? I know OE is the way, but these items on Rock are HALF PRICE! and one item,
http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=3930006&cc=1424696&jsn=402
looks awfully impressive.

 

[crabman]

Zshaw,
If you have removed the air intake horn & did not replace the gaskets with new ones, it can throw a code.
From the FSM.
CAUTION:
The heater elements are no longer grounded using the external ground strap. Grounding is now accomplished using the two electrically conductive gaskets. Failure to use these gaskets will result in faulty element operation.