P1259Manufacturer-specific code

P1259 Code: VTEC System Malfunction (Honda)

On Honda and Acura, the P1259 code means the VTEC system is malfunctioning. The engine lacks power at high rpm. Low or dirty oil is the most common cause.

Severity
Medium
Can I keep driving?
Yes, no immediate risk
Estimated cost
$20 to $300
Difficulty
Medium
System
Ignition and Misfires
Applies to
Depends on the manufacturer

Common in: Honda

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P1259 code means

P1259 is a manufacturer-specific code: the 1 in the second position means each automaker defines what it stands for, not the generic standard. The most widespread definition is the one used by Honda and Acura. If your vehicle is another brand, confirm the code text with a scan tool that supports that manufacturer.

ManufacturerMeaning of P1259
Honda and AcuraVTEC system malfunction

Honda VTEC changes the cam profile above a certain engine speed to gain power. A solenoid lets pressurized oil through to the rocker arms, and an oil pressure switch confirms the change.

The computer sets the P1259 code when it activates VTEC and the pressure switch does not confirm the change, or when it detects a fault in the solenoid circuit.

Before you repair anything, confirm the make, model, year and engine. With manufacturer codes, the same number can change even between engines from the same brand.

P1259 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Lack of power at high rpm.
  • The engine does not switch to the high cam profile.

Likely causes of the P1259 code

  1. Low, dirty or wrong-viscosity oil. The most frequent cause.
  2. Clogged solenoid screen. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  3. Failed VTEC solenoid. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  4. VTEC pressure switch. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  5. Connector soaked with oil.

How to diagnose the P1259 code step by step

  1. Check the oil level and type.
  2. Clean the solenoid screen next to the cylinder head.
  3. Measure the solenoid. It should read 14 to 30 ohms.
  4. Check the pressure switch with the scan tool.

How to fix the P1259 code

  • Change the oil and filter.
  • Clean the screen.
  • Replace the solenoid or the switch, then clear the P1259 code and confirm the engine switches to the high cam profile.

Technical reference data

  • VTEC solenoid resistance: 14 to 30 ohms.
  • P1xxx codes are manufacturer-specific: confirm the definition with a scan tool that supports your brand.
  • Values are approximate: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

Very common on the Civic, Accord, CR-V, Fit and Odyssey.

If your vehicle is another brand, check the table above for the meaning its manufacturer gives the code, and confirm it with a scan tool that supports that brand.

Frequently asked questions about P1259

What does the P1259 code mean on a Honda?
It means the VTEC system is malfunctioning. The engine lacks power at high rpm because it is not switching to the high cam profile.
Does P1259 mean the same thing on every brand?
No. It is a manufacturer code, and on other brands it may not exist or it may mean something else.
Can I drive with a P1259 code?
Yes, with less power at high rpm. Check the oil level first, since low oil is the most common cause and can harm the engine.
How much does it cost to fix P1259?
On a Honda the cost runs from about $20 to $300. An oil change or a screen cleaning is cheap, while a new solenoid or switch costs more.
Will a P1259 code clear itself?
It may if the problem was low oil that you have topped up, but a clogged screen or a bad solenoid will bring the code back.
What is the most common cause of P1259?
Low, dirty or wrong-viscosity oil. Check the level and condition of the oil before you replace any VTEC part.

Related codes

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