Not too familiar with cars and recently my engine check light turned on. Went to Autozone to pull the code and got "p1259" and from the forums it says it's a vtec malfunction. Under the hood it makes a small rattling noise at idle or maybe throughout but I can't hear it cuz of the exhaust. Anyways my question is if anyone had a similar problem and estimated cost of fix? Thanks!

 

Hmm could be acouple things but yes it is Vtech Solenoid related. First things first is how is your oil? Check your oil and then check the 2 connectors that go onto the Vtech solenoid, thats the simplest solutions you can hope for. If its not one of the 2 I listed, then Id wait for some of the pros to chime in. Small rattling, could also be a possible Timing Chain Tensioner, Id replace it, its cheap insurance.

 

Oil needs to be changed for sure, I went about 800 miles over the due period so it could be running low. I don't think it's the timing chain tensioner, I've recently replace it a month ago and I know it could be a common misconception. The noise is a bit different, it sounds like it has to do with the belt but I'm not sure. It doesn't seem like it is coming from the motor but more so by the pulley.

 

If the oil is low you will get this code.

check oil level 1st. Add oil to put it on the top XXX's of the stick. Then go get your oil changed.

 

oh... I had always thought the main req light would be on before something like this would happen???... I'll grab a recording of the noise under the hood ... and put up another posting. Hopefully someone out there will recognize it .. in any case, it's going to the shop tomorrow. BTW thanks for the input~