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P0481ModeratePowertrain

P0481 on 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer — Cooling Fan 2 Control Circuit

1 vehicles · 1 makes · $450-$1,600 repair

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Most Reported On

2021-2023Jeep Grand Wagoneer

P0481 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Cooling Fan 2 Control Circuit.” This code indicates the PCM detected a fault in the control circuit for cooling fan 2 (a second engine cooling/condenser fan relay or circuit). The cooling fans help regulate engine and A/C condenser temperature, especially at low speeds and idle. A fault can lead to reduced cooling performance, potential overheating in heavy load or hot conditions, and poor A/C cooling. It should be checked promptly to avoid overheating risk. This code is most commonly reported on 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, with repair costs ranging from $450 to $1,600.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (1)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
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Common Causes

1Faulty cooling fan relay (fan 2)
2Open or shorted wiring in the fan control circuit
3Corroded or loose connector at relay or fan
4Failed cooling fan motor
5Blown fuse feeding the fan circuit
6Failing PCM (less common)

Typical Repair Cost

$450 - $1,600

Based on 1 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P0481, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

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A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

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Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

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Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.

  • Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
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Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

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A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

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Professional$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

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Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.

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Vehicles Affected (1)

Grand WagoneerMinor

Cooling Fan Module Failure / Overheating Warning

2021-2023$450-$1,60058 reports

Related Codes (8)

P0480Cooling Fan 1 Control CircuitP0483Cooling Fan Rationality Check MalfunctionP0488Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Position Control Range/PerformanceP0020Camshaft Position 'A' Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)P0034Turbocharger/Supercharger Bypass Valve Control Circuit LowP0035Turbocharger/Supercharger Bypass Valve Control Circuit HighP003ATurbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control 'A' Position Exceeded Learning LimitP0046Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control 'A' Circuit Range/Performance

FAQ

What does P0481 mean?

P0481 stands for "Cooling Fan 2 Control Circuit." This code indicates the PCM detected a fault in the control circuit for cooling fan 2 (a second engine cooling/condenser fan relay or circuit). The cooling fans help regulate engine and A/C condenser temperature, especially at low speeds and idle. A fault can lead to reduced cooling performance, potential overheating in heavy load or hot conditions, and poor A/C cooling. It should be checked promptly to avoid overheating risk.

What are the most common causes of P0481?

The most common causes of P0481 are: Faulty cooling fan relay (fan 2), Open or shorted wiring in the fan control circuit, Corroded or loose connector at relay or fan, Failed cooling fan motor, Blown fuse feeding the fan circuit, Failing PCM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P0481?

Repair costs for P0481 range from $450 to $1,600, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by P0481?

Au7o has documented P0481 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Jeep.

Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

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