C1197 Fiat 128 Diagnostic Trouble Code

C1197 Fiat 128 code definition:
C1197 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Fiat 128.

C1197 Fiat 128 or the Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow is the set whenever the computer sees that there is a problem with the flow coming from the purge valve or the purge flow is not enough within the EVAP system. There are two wires dedicated for each coil; one is battery feed which usually comes from the distribution center, and the other one for the coil driver circuit from the PCM. The PCM grounds or ungrounds the circuit to activate or deactivate the coil.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C1197 Fiat 128 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Cherry red hot catalytic converter
Poor acceleration
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels

Possible Causes :

An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code
Rusty exhaust systems, cracked exhaust manifolds or damaged or missing gaskets or donuts will cause air leaks.
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly

Common Misdiagnoses

IC Circuit High Voltage Problem
Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem

Repair Processes :

Use the DVOM to test resistance and continuity on all system circuits if actuator and sensor resistance levels are in compliance with manufacturer's specifications. Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector. Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C1197 Fiat 128 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C1197 Fiat 128.

Fortunately, C1197 Fiat 128 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.