What Is the P1604 Code?
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Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
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The P1604 code, defined as “Startability Malfunction,” is a very difficult-to-understand code that pops up only very occasionally. For many vehicles, the set condition is that the engine cannot start even after cranking for a certain number of seconds, often as high as 30 seconds, or if the vehicle doesn’t idle effectively after cranking.
More About the P1604 Code
Most frequently, you’ll see the P1604 code in Toyota vehicles, especially more recent Toyota vehicles. This code very rarely appears on its own; if you see the P1604 code in your vehicle, then it’s important to check for any other OBD codes that you see, as it’s most likely that you’ll see other codes that will give you an idea of the underlying problem, as well as exactly what caused it.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P1604 Code?
The symptoms of the P1604 code are the same as the reasons it sets because this specific code sets based on symptoms. If you crank the engine for a certain number of seconds, but it still doesn’t start up, or if the engine starts but then immediately stalls, then it will throw this code. It may or may not turn on the check engine light.
What Are Some Causes of a P1604 Code?
Some of the more common causes for the P1604 code include a low battery charge, clogged fuel filter, or low-quality fuel within the vehicle. In some cases, the engine control module (ECM) may also be negatively impacted. Occasionally, this might happen if you have no fuel in the engine, as the vehicle will be unable to start if there isn’t any fuel for it to run with.
How Serious Is the P1604 Code?
The P1604 code will generally cause your vehicle to be unable to start entirely. Because it requires that the vehicle cranks for a number of seconds without catching, the P1604 code nearly requires that your vehicle functions with a no-start condition. If your vehicle seems to be running normally, then that may mean there’s a fault within the electronic system because the code should not come up with a vehicle that’s running normally, and you should still check with a professional.
Can I Still Drive with a P1604 Code?
Avoid driving with a P1604 code. Of course, in many situations, you won’t be able to drive with a P1604 code. By its very nature, the P1604 code generally makes it impossible for you to drive. However, even if you’re able to drive with the code, that means there’s some kind of issue causing the code to trigger when it shouldn’t. Take your vehicle in as soon as you see this code.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1604 Code?
The diagnostic process of the P1604 code can be very difficult because it doesn’t describe an underlying problem; it just describes the symptoms. If the problem is simply that you’re out of fuel, then you should be able to fix it by topping up with a gas can. However, if this doesn’t work, it’s up to you to run the variety of diagnostics and tests necessary to isolate the actual cause of the no-start condition. This complexity is why many people suggest you leave the diagnosis process to a professional.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1604 Code?
Essentially any part of your engine could be malfunctioning with a P1604 code; it simply indicates that there’s a problem where the vehicle will not start after you’ve cranked it for a number of seconds. That means you may need to delve deep within the engine, including inspections for elements that you may not have ever inspected before. Instead of potentially harming your vehicle by rummaging around inside it, it’s best to leave this problem up to an expert.
Need Additional Help with Your P1604 Code?
Most people dealing with a P1604 code will need to get expert help to fix it. Especially if the problem is not immediately obvious, it’s best to talk to an expert instead, as an expert will have the specialized training necessary to identify the issue and help you fix the problem. Rather than trying to go at it yourself, get help for this especially difficult repair from an expert.
KBB can help you find a repair shop in your area so you can get started on the process. If you’re looking for the nearest repair shop, especially if your vehicle won’t start and you’ll need to tow it, then this can be a great resource.
Additionally, this code almost always comes with other codes, due to the fact that this code doesn’t directly indicate the source of the problem. If you’re interested in learning more about how these codes work, especially when it comes to how multiple codes might interact with each other, check out KBB’s OBD-II database. This database gives you more insight into different OBD codes and what they might mean.
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