What Codes Will This Page Cover?
- P1521 Variable Intake Solenoid #1 Circuit Malfunction
- P1522 Variable Intake Solenoid #2 Circuit Malfunction
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What Is the P1521 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
The P1521 and P1522 codes are manufacturer-specific codes that can mean a number of different things, but in some manufacturers, refers to an issue with your variable intake solenoids. P1521 indicates an issue with your variable intake solenoid #1, while P1522 indicates an issue with variable intake solenoid #2. These solenoids are part of your vehicle’s intake manifold process, which is in charge of supplying the air/fuel mixture to the vehicle’s cylinders.
More About the P1521 and P1522 Codes
Issues with the variable intake solenoid are only related to this code for very few manufacturers, most notably Citroen and Peugeot, although it may pop up in certain other manufacturers, such as Mazda. Here are a few other descriptions you might see for P1521:
- Transmission Engaged At High Throttle Angle – Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM
- Engine oil sensor module malfunction – Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram
- Power Steering Switch – Daewoo, Kia
Here are a few you might see for the P1522 code:
- Park/Neutral To Drive/Reverse At High RPM – Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM
- Camshaft Malfunction – Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Volkswagen
- Battery Malfunction – Daewoo, Hyundai
This is a good reminder that the specific meaning of a code can change dramatically depending on your manufacturer. Always check the actual description of the code rather than just assuming this is the meaning of the code.
What Are the Symptoms of a P1521 Code?
Issues with your variable intake solenoids can cause a number of different problems, ranging from just turning on the check engine light to causing a complete no-start condition. This all depends on the exact malfunction, as well as where the problem is and whether or not the intake manifold process is still able to function. Because this is such a generic trouble code, it can be difficult to tell the symptoms based on just these codes, which is why the symptoms can vary so significantly.
What Are Some Causes of a P1521 Code?
Again, because these codes are incredibly generic, it can be hard to determine the cause based exclusively on the codes. It’s best to do more investigation into the precise codes that you’re experiencing, including other codes that might come up as well. However, the cause is often attached to the solenoids themselves or to another component of the intake manifold, which means that the intake manifold process should be the first part of the vehicle that you start checking out.
How Serious Is the P1521 Code?
The P1521 and P1522 codes can be very serious, depending on the symptoms you’re experiencing. Because your intake manifold process has to do with the air/fuel ratio within your vehicle, a malfunctioning variable intake solenoid, regardless of which solenoid it is, can seriously impact your vehicle’s ability to function. Talk to an expert once you notice these codes, whether or not you’re seeing extremely serious symptoms arising from them.
Can I Still Drive with a P1521 Code?
In some cases, you might not be able to drive with these codes active at all. However, even if you can technically drive, it’s not recommended. There are plenty of problems that can arise if you keep driving when the P1521 and P1522 codes are active, and many of these problems can arise without warning. Plus, depending on the symptoms, your vehicle may be using significantly more fuel than necessary, resulting in an extremely low fuel economy and costing you extra money to run your vehicle.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1521 Code?
The diagnosis process of these two codes is exceptionally difficult because of the generic nature of the code. With just the code, you may not be able to tell exactly what the problem is, which can be very frustrating for hobbyists and DIYers. That’s one of the reasons why it’s generally recommended to get help from a professional who will be able to help you diagnose the process more accurately.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1521 Code?
The inspection process of the P1521 and P1522 codes can also be difficult because you often need specialty tools to inspect the solenoid and the intake manifold process. Many people don’t know how to inspect these processes, which can result in even more problems if you go into it completely blind. Get help from an expert, and you’ll be able to discover a fix more effectively.
Need Additional Help with Your P1521 Code?
Most people who experience the P1521 and P1522 codes in their vehicle will need help from an expert to discover the exact problem. The good news is that there are many professionals willing and able to help.
Start by finding a repair shop in your area. By finding a local professional, you’ll be able to get your vehicle to the expert more effectively.
Additionally, these codes almost always come with other codes that give more insight into the issues you’re actually experiencing. The KBB OBD-II database will help you understand those secondary codes.
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