Powertrain, generic · Computer and auxiliary outputs

P0696 Fan 3 Control Circuit High

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modeNo

The engine module switches the radiator fan relays (or the input of a PWM fan module) through output drivers and checks each control circuit electrically. GM sets a short to ground or voltage at 0.5 Ω or less after 50 of 63 samples, with the lamp after two trips; GM Europe's 2011 Saab 9-5 covers P0691–P0696 with relay assignments, the Saab 9-4X's PWM fan module reacts within 1 s. P0696 means the fan 3 control circuit is shorted to voltage. Only the Saab page describes it in detail; GM's diesel tables list it without thresholds.

Likely causes

Control wire shorted to battery or ignition voltage
Relay coil open or wrong relay fitted
PWM fan module feeding voltage back onto the control line
Engine module driver faulty

Symptoms

  • Check engine light (GM after two trips)
  • Fan does not run
  • Rising coolant temperature in traffic or with A/C on
  • A/C may be switched off to protect the engine

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€20–400
Time0.3–2 h

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

Parts involved

cooling fan relayfan control circuitengine control module

Related codes

P0482P0695P0692P0694P0217

References: law.cornell.edu, saabwisonline.com, gsi.ext.gm.com.