OBD Guide

P1656

Oil Control Valve Circuit Malfunction

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Yes, but get it checked soon
Approx. repair cost
$17–67 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Unstable engine operation at idle
  • Reduced engine power and response
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Check Engine Light Illuminates
  • Possible misfires

Causes

  • Oil control valve (OCV) malfunction
  • Open or short circuit in valve control circuit
  • Poor contact in valve connector
  • Low or contaminated engine oil
  • Malfunction of the engine control unit (rare)

How to Fix

  1. Check the level and condition of the engine oil
  2. Check the electrical circuit of the valve for opens and shorts
  3. Clean or replace oil control valve
  4. Check the operation of the VVT system using a diagnostic scanner
  5. Replace oil control valve if necessary

Related codes

Error P1656 by Vehicle Brand