P0481

Fan 2 Control Circuit

Car Fault Codes Cooling & lubrication

Can you still drive? With care, short trips only

Who can fix it? Needs a workshop

Typical repair time 15 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 50 to 1,500

What it means

The engine computer has detected an electrical fault in the control circuit for cooling fan 2. On many vehicles this is the second fan or the high-speed circuit, which runs when temperature or A/C pressure is high, so a fault usually shows up in hot weather and traffic.

Symptoms4

Engine temperature rising in traffic or with the A/C on in hot weather.
Weak A/C cooling when stopped.
Only the other fan runs, or only at low speed.
Check engine light on.

Possible causes6

Failed fan 2 relay.
Blown fuse for the circuit.
Wiring or connector near the radiator damaged by heat or vibration.
Failed or seized second fan motor.
Failed speed resistor or control module that sets fan speed on vehicles that have one.
Faulty driver circuit inside the engine computer (rare).

How to diagnose5

Command fan 2 with a scan tool and confirm it spins at the requested speed.
Check the fuse and swap the relay with an identical known-good one.
Confirm the control signal from the computer reaches the relay.
Measure voltage at the fan connector while commanded.
Check the speed resistor or control module if fitted, and the wiring near the radiator.

How to fix5

Replace the blown fuse or faulty relay.
Repair damaged wiring or the connector.
Replace the speed resistor or control module if proven faulty.
Replace the fan motor if it has failed.
Clear the codes and confirm both fans run with the A/C on and the engine hot.

Repair cost

0–500

500–2,000

2,000–5,000

5,000+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost is small when a relay or fuse is to blame, and rises when the fan motor or control module must be replaced.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

The fan runs, so why is the code set?

One fan or the low speed may still work, while the faulty circuit is the second fan or high speed that the vehicle needs in extreme heat.

Can I drive with this code?

With care, and watch the temperature gauge, especially in traffic with the A/C on in summer. Repair it soon to avoid overheating.

This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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