Electrical Load Detector Circuit Low Voltage

What it means

This is a Honda- and Acura-specific code; the same number can mean something different on other makes. The electrical load detector (ELD) is a unit in the under-hood fuse box that tells the computer how much current the car is using so it can control alternator charging. The code means the ELD signal is lower than expected, usually from a shorted wire or a failed unit.

Models covered: Honda and Acura models, mainly 1990s–2000s.

Related codes: P1298P0620P0562P0563

Symptoms3

• Check engine light on.
• Slight idle dip or surge when loads such as A/C and lights switch on.
• Headlights may change brightness at times.

Possible causes5

• ELD signal wire shorted to ground.
• Failed electrical load detector (ELD) unit.
• Corrosion or water inside the fuse box or its connector.
• Problem with the ELD supply voltage.
• Engine computer fault (rare).

How to diagnose5

1. Inspect the under-hood fuse box for water or corrosion.
2. Watch the ELD reading on a scan tool as you switch on lights and the fan.
3. Measure supply and signal voltage at the unit and compare with the manufacturer specification.
4. Check the signal wire between the unit and the computer for a short to ground.
5. Confirm battery and charging are healthy to rule them out.

How to fix4

1. Clean corroded connectors and dry the fuse box.
2. Repair the shorted wire.
3. Replace the ELD unit; on some models it is sold only with the whole fuse box.
4. Clear the code and confirm the ELD reading changes with electrical load.

Repair cost

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

The cost is low for a wire or connector repair, and much higher on models where the ELD is not sold separately and the fuse box 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