Powertrain, generic · Vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

P059F Active Grille Air Shutter A Performance/Stuck Off

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modeNo

The active grille shutter (A = upper or only shutter, B = second) closes louvres to cut drag and speed warm-up and opens them for cooling; CARB names it as an off-cycle CO2 technology and requires its components to be monitored. P059F compares commanded and reached position. GM checks it in two stages – detection, then five clearing attempts – type B, two trips; Ford's 3.0 L diesel at over 6° deviation in operation or 20° when learning fully open. 'Stuck off' means stuck closed at Toyota (failure type 73) and Nissan; GM and Ford use P059F for any deviation. Typical are ice, snow, debris or a bent bracket – a closed shutter can make the engine run hot in traffic.

Likely causes

Louvres blocked by ice, snow or debris
Bent bracket or bumper part blocking the louvres
Actuator, gear or shaft faulty (shutter stays closed)
Louvres unhooked or rubbing on horn or intake duct
Calibration or software

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Shutter not opening: engine temperature rises in traffic, fan running often
  • Often after frost, gone after thawing

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€0–700
Time0.3–2 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

grille shuttergrille shutter actuatorengine control module

Related codes

P05A0P05A1P05A2P05AEP059B

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, fordservicecontent.com, static.nhtsa.gov.