What causes fault code P0482?

• Most likely: Faulty fan relay (no. 3 or high-speed relay) • Likely: Wiring issues (open circuit or short to ground in the control line) • Possible: Defective cooling fan motor (internal open circuit) • Rare: Failed Engine Control Module (ECM) or corroded fuse box terminals

How do you fix fault code P0482?

STEP 1: Inspect fuses for fan 3 and individual relays. Check for signs of overheating or oxidation. STEP 2: Use a bidirectional scan tool to command the fan ON. Measure for 12V at the relay coil and power pins. STEP 3: Check continuity of the control wire from the ECM to the relay (should be < 1 Ohm). Test fan motor resistance (typically 0.5-5 Ohms). STEP 4: Replace faulty relay, fan motor, or repair wiring as indicated by testing.

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)Standard EOBD

P0482 - Fan 3 Control Circuit Malfunction

Q: What does fault code P0482 mean?

P0482 is an OBD-II generic code indicating a malfunction in the cooling fan 3 control circuit. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the relay or PWM control circuit for the third radiator fan. If the ECM detects an improper voltage state (open circuit, short to ground, or short to voltage) when the fan command is issued, the DTC is set. This usually refers to the high-speed fan relay circuit or a specific auxiliary fan assembly.

Q: What are the symptoms of fault code P0482?

• Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated • Engine overheating during idling or stop-and-go traffic • Reduced AC performance when the vehicle is stationary • Cooling fan fails to operate or only runs at low speed

Last updated:1 February 2026

Related:Radiator Fan Relay, Radiator Fan Motor, ECM (Engine Control Module), ECT, Fuse Box

System

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)

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Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Malfunction

P0401

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Flow Insufficient Detected

P0402

Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Excessive Detected

P0403

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Control Circuit

Technical Description

P0482 is an OBD-II generic code indicating a malfunction in the cooling fan 3 control circuit. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the relay or PWM control circuit for the third radiator fan. If the ECM detects an improper voltage state (open circuit, short to ground, or short to voltage) when the fan command is issued, the DTC is set. This usually refers to the high-speed fan relay circuit or a specific auxiliary fan assembly.

Possible Causes

Faulty fan relay (no. 3 or high-speed relay)

Wiring issues (open circuit or short to ground in the control line)

Defective cooling fan motor (internal open circuit)

Failed Engine Control Module (ECM) or corroded fuse box terminals

Symptoms

Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated

Engine overheating during idling or stop-and-go traffic

Reduced AC performance when the vehicle is stationary

Cooling fan fails to operate or only runs at low speed

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P0482 - Fan 3 Control Circuit Malfunction

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P0482 - Fan 3 Control Circuit Malfunction

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