C1686 Fairthorpe Zeta Diagnostic Trouble Code

C1686 Fairthorpe Zeta code definition:
C1686 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Fairthorpe Zeta.

C1686 Fairthorpe Zeta is described as Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Circuit Malfunction. It's actually a general trouble code for a problem on IAT electrical circuit sensor, as it sends incorrect voltage input signals to the PCM. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C1686 Fairthorpe Zeta diagnostic trouble code may include:

Misfire
Misfire
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly
The Mass Airflow sensor will also cause this problem. Mass Airflow circuit malfunction.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender. If the engine displays a miss and there wasn't a code, determine which cylinder is misfiring. If the exhaust manifold is visible, spay or pour a small amount of water on each cylinder exhaust port. Water will evaporate immediately on good cylinders and slowly on the missing cylinder. If this can't be accomplished pull the plugs and check the condition. 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.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C1686 Fairthorpe Zeta 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 C1686 Fairthorpe Zeta.

Fortunately, C1686 Fairthorpe Zeta is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.