OBD Guide

P1257

VTEC System Malfunction

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$17–89 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Reduced engine power
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Check Engine Light Is On
  • Unstable engine idling
  • Engine does not go into high power mode

Causes

  • Low or poor quality engine oil
  • VTEC solenoid malfunction
  • Clogged oil filter
  • VTEC control circuit problems
  • Mechanical damage to VTEC components

How to Fix

  1. Check the level and condition of the engine oil
  2. Change oil and oil filter if necessary
  3. Check the operation of the VTEC solenoid
  4. Check electrical circuit and connections
  5. Diagnose mechanical components of the VTEC system

Related codes

Error P1257 by Vehicle Brand