OBD-II reference

All 9.533 generic OBD-II codes, explained in detail.

Causes, inspection steps and sources — a comprehensive DIY archive. Created and maintained with love for the detail. Good luck and have fun!

Powertrain generic / SAE

P0494

Fan 1 Underspeed

Cooling fan 1 is rotating slower than commanded. The ECU sees the tachometer feedback below the expected window for the requested duty cycle - usually a worn fan motor, a high-resistance harness or feed, or a partially seized impeller.

SystemPowertrain
Typegeneric / SAE
GroupP0
Range / number4 / 94

Possible causes

  • Fan 1 motor worn or brushes degraded high
  • High contact resistance in feed medium
  • Fan impeller seized or blocked low

Inspection / repair

  • Difficulty: medium
  • DIY: possible
  • Estimated cost: 120–500 €
  • Estimated time: 0.8–2 h
  • Component: cooling fan 1
  • Component: fan motor 1
  • Component: fan speed sensor 1
  • MIL / check engine light

Sources

References

How to read OBD-II codes

The first letter names the vehicle system, the second digit distinguishes generic from manufacturer-specific, the remaining digits group fault area and number.

PPowertrain: engine, transmission, emissions
BBody: chassis trim, comfort, interior
CChassis: suspension, brakes, steering
UNetwork: CAN, control modules, communication