I. Introduction
A. Explanation of OBD-II Codes
B. Importance of Understanding OBD-II Codes
C. Explanation of OBD-II Code P0859 – Traction Control Input Signal High
II. What is Traction Control?
A. Definition of Traction Control
B. Importance of Traction Control
III. What Causes OBD-II Code P0859?
A. Faulty Traction Control Module
B. Wiring Issues
C. Malfunctioning ABS Sensor
D. corroded Connectors
IV. Symptoms of OBD-II Code P0859
A. Traction Control Light On
B. Engine Stalling
C. Inability to Accelerate
D. Unresponsive Brake Pedal
V. How to Repair OBD-II Code P0859
A. Visual Inspection
B. Checking Connectors
C. Repairing or Replacing the Traction Control Module
D. Replacing the ABS Sensor
VI. Prevention of OBD-II Code P0859
A. Regular Maintenance
B. Taking Care of Electrical Connections
C. Using Quality Replacement Parts
VII. Frequently Asked Questions
A. What is the Traction Control Module?
B. Can I Drive with OBD-II Code P0859?
C. How Long Does it Take to Repair OBD-II Code P0859?
D. Can Traction Control be Turned Off?
E. How Much Does it Cost to Repair OBD-II Code P0859?
VIII. Conclusion
Introduction
Most of us are customers and car owners who are well-informed about the broad level of our car’s performance, but remain unaware of what is happening under the hood. The On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system performs many vital functions, including monitoring and regulating various systems, detecting malfunctions and storing them as Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC). OBD-II codes are four-character codes used to identify issues with various vehicular systems. Understanding these codes is essential for efficient troubleshooting and repair.
OBD-II Code P0859 refers to an issue with the traction control input circuit, which registers as a high signal. This code affects vehicles with electronic traction control, where the powertrain control module (PCM) commands the traction set light to turn on when an error is detected with the traction control system.
What is Traction Control?
Traction control is a fundamental safety mechanism in modern cars that helps to increase tire contact with the road surface by making critical decisions when the vehicle is in motion. Traction control systems are designed to prevent skids or wheels from spinning on wet, icy or slippery roads by brake or slowing down the rear wheels or limiting engine power. This system provides drivers with improved control of their vehicles in difficult conditions. If something is not working correctly, it can be a significant safety issue, jeopardizing the safe operation of the vehicle.
What Causes OBD-II Code P0859?
Several underlying factors cause the occurrence of the OBD-II Code P0859. The three main causes are faulty traction control module, wiring issues, and a malfunctioning ABS sensor.
Faulty Traction Control Module – The traction control module (TCM) is responsible for detecting and correcting traction issues as they occur. If it fails to obtain required data or sends incorrect data, the TCM will trigger OBD-II Code P0859.
Wiring Issues – Faulty wiring or corroded connections are common problems that can cause OBD-II Code P0859. Wiring or connectors damaged or corroded over time might cause the TCM to misinterpret the input signal from other sensors.
Malfunctioning ABS Sensor – The wheel speed sensors work together with the traction control module to detect slips or skids. If one of them enters an error state and provides incorrect data, it can lead to OBD-II Code P0859.
Corroded Connectors – Traction Control Input Signal High could be related to corroded connectors between the TCM and the control circuits.
Symptoms of OBD-II Code P0859
There are several symptoms that could indicate the presence of OBD-II Code P0859. The symptoms associated with this code include:
Traction Control Light On – The most noticeable symptom is the appearance of the traction control warning on the dashboard. The traction control warning light will flash if the vehicle’s traction control is not functioning correctly, accompanied by OBD-II code P0859.
Engine Stalling – If the TCM detects issues with the traction control system, it may send a signal to the engine control module to put the engine into fail-safe mode. In this state, the engine will only idle and will no longer accelerate.
Inability to Accelerate – When the traction control system is not functioning correctly, the PCM may limit engine power, making it unable to increase vehicle speed beyond a certain point.
Unresponsive Brake Pedal – If the traction control warning light is on and stays lit, the vehicle’s anti-lock brakes may stop working correctly. When this occurs, you may notice that the brake pedal feels less responsive than expected.
How to Repair OBD-II Code P0859
The Traction Control Input Signal High requires a professional technician with expertise in diagnosing and solving these problems. If you notice the symptoms mentioned earlier, make sure to book an appointment with a professional mechanic. Below are a few steps that an auto mechanic will typically follow to repair OBD-II Code P0859.
Visual Inspection – The first step is a visual inspection of the traction control module and connections. Technicians will look for wires and connectors that appear frayed, loose or corroded.
Check Connectors – After visually inspecting the system, the technician will check that connectors are firmly seated and not corroded.
Repairing or Replacing the Traction Control Module – In some instances, replacing the TCM might be the most effective solution. Unlike the ABS module replacement, the majority of TCM replacements are plug-n-play, which makes the joining of the new TCM much more comfortable and reliable with minimal security risks.
Replacing the ABS Sensor – If OBD-II Code P0859 is caused by a malfunctioning ABS sensor, the mechanic will replace it.
Prevention of OBD-II Code P0859
Preventing OBD-II Code P0859 requires regular maintenance and taking care of electrical connections in your vehicle. Using better quality replacement parts can also help prevent faults like this from happening. Below are some strategies to help prevent this code from reoccurring:
Regular Maintenance – Regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing these problems by correcting smaller issues before they become bigger problems.
Taking Care of Electrical Connections – Vehicles can be prone to electrical issues over time. By making sure the connections are clean and the electrical systems are well-maintained, the chances of developing OBD-II Code P0859 is less likely.
Using Quality Replacement Parts – By investing in quality parts, such as sensors or connectors, you could avoid premature failure and a resultant OBD-II Code P0859.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Traction Control Module?
The traction control module (TCM) is a part of the car’s anti-lock brake system that monitors the rate of wheel rotation and applies the brake to slow down a specific wheel when it is slipping.
Can I Drive with OBD-II Code P0859?
While many vehicle systems may continue to operate despite P0859 existence, fixing this code is vital to the safe and efficient handling of your car.
How Long Does it Take to Repair OBD-II Code P0859?
It depends on the cause of the problem. If it is a wiring issue, it may take a couple of hours or a day. Alternatively, if it occurs due to a fault with the traction control module or ABS sensor, it could take longer.
Can Traction Control be Turned Off?
Most new cars have a button on the dashboard that allows the driver to turn the traction control system off.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair OBD-II Code P0859?
The cost of fixing OBD-II Code P0859 will depend on the cause of the problem. Repairs/add-on modules could cost you a few hundred dollars. In contrast, sensor replacement and extensive rewiring could be expensive, costing you upwards of several hundred dollars.
Conclusion
The OBD-II Code P0859 is a common issue faced by many vehicle owners, and fixing it needs to be done as soon as possible. Your car’s TCM and ABS have essential roles to play in your vehicle’s safety, and knowing how they work and how to troubleshoot issues may save you money and time on repair costs. If you encounter an error code, such as P0859 display on the dashboard, book an appointment with a professional mechanic immediately.