Powertrain, generic (extended)

P2C3E Fan 4 Control Circuit

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P2C3E reports a fault on the control circuit of a fourth fan output: the driver in the engine or fan control module sees an open line, a missing load or an error it cannot sort into low or high. What counts as fan 4 is up to the maker. Saab's GM-based 9-5 of 2011 shows that such numbers follow control outputs rather than motors: three relays switch speed stages of two fans and report P0480 to P0482, or split into short to ground and short to voltage P0691 to P0696, all type B. No manufacturer publicly documents P2C3E. A blown fuse, an open relay coil, a broken wire or a loose plug at the fan are the likely finds. Depending on layout one fan stage stays off, and the engine may run hot in slow traffic. Low and high variants are P2C3F and P2C40.

Likely causes

Broken wire or loose connector in the fan 4 control line
Fan 4 relay coil open or relay missing
Blown fuse feeding the relay or fan module
Output driver in the control module defective

Symptoms

  • One fan or fan stage does not run when commanded
  • Rising temperature at idle or in traffic, weaker A/C at standstill
  • Check engine light

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€20–450
Time0.5–2.5 h

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

Parts involved

cooling fan 4fan relay 4ecm

Related codes

P2C3FP2C40P2C42U067DP0482P0480

References: law.cornell.edu, saabwisonline.com.