P1253moderate severityPowertrain

VTEC System Circuit Fault

on 2016 Honda Pilot 3.5L V6 · AWD

What this code means

Electrical fault in the VTEC solenoid circuit.

Symptoms

  • CEL
  • Loss of VTEC at high RPM
  • Reduced top-end power
  • Flat feeling above 4000 RPM

Common causes

  • Faulty VTEC solenoid
  • Open/short in wiring
  • Low oil pressure
  • Dirty oil clogging screens

Diagnostic steps

  1. Test solenoid resistance
  2. Check oil level
  3. Inspect VTEC screen
  4. Test with scan tool

Repair notes

Replace VTEC solenoid or change oil.

Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle

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