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P1250low severityPowertrain

Early Fuel Evaporation Heater Circuit

on 2016 Chevrolet Traverse 3.6L V6 · AWD

What this code means

The PCM detected a malfunction in the Early Fuel Evaporation (EFE) heater circuit. The EFE system heats the intake to aid fuel vaporization during cold starts. The PCM checks EFE heater resistance with the heater off (should be above 2.5V) and on (should be below 0.3V).

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Rough idle when cold
  • Poor cold-start performance
  • Increased cold-start emissions
  • Poor fuel economy in cold weather

Common causes

  • Failed EFE heater element
  • EFE heater control circuit open
  • EFE heater ignition power circuit open
  • Corroded EFE heater connections
  • PCM failure (rare)

Diagnostic steps

  1. Test EFE heater element for continuity
  2. Check control circuit voltage
  3. Test ignition power supply to heater
  4. Inspect wiring and connectors for corrosion
  5. Monitor EFE circuit with scan tool

Repair notes

Test EFE heater element resistance. Replace heater if open. Check power supply and control circuit wiring.

Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle

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