P1259 on Acura
VTEC System Malfunction (Honda)
P1259 on Acura vehicles indicates vtec system malfunction (honda). Au7o has documented this code across 1 Acura model — most commonly on Integra. This Honda-specific code indicates a malfunction in the VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system, the technology that switches between different camshaft profiles to boost performance at higher RPM. The system uses an oil-pressure-controlled spool valve and a pressure switch to engage VTEC, and the engine computer monitors whether the commanded change in valve operation actually occurs. The code sets when the computer detects that VTEC engagement or oil pressure is not matching expectations. It commonly causes reduced high-RPM power and a check engine light, and is frequently tied to oil level or oil pressure problems. Typical repair costs on Acura range from $70 to $250, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P1259
- •Low engine oil level or low oil pressure
- •Faulty VTEC solenoid or clogged solenoid screen
- •Faulty VTEC oil pressure switch
- •Dirty or degraded engine oil
- •Wiring or connector fault at the VTEC solenoid or switch
- •Sticking VTEC spool valve
- •Faulty engine control module
P1259 on Acura by Model
Acura Integra(1 issue)
- VTEC oil pressure switch failure (Code 22 / P1259) on GS-R and Type R1994-2001
The VTEC oil pressure switch screwed into the VTEC solenoid assembly on B18C engines fails or leaks, triggering CEL with OBD1 Code 22 or OBD2 P1259. Symptoms include VTEC not engaging at high RPM and a hard rev-limiter drop. Owner had a 99 GSR with CEL constantly on and code 22 (VTEC Oil Pressure Switch). Even after replacing it with a new one and swapping the VTEC solenoid, the problem occurred after going into VTEC and letting off, mostly around 60-90mph. Error code 22 corresponds to the front valve timing oil pressure switch, which is the VTEC oil pressure switch.
Looking for P1259 on a different make?
View P1259 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P1259 mean on Acura?▼
P1259 stands for "VTEC System Malfunction (Honda)." This Honda-specific code indicates a malfunction in the VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system, the technology that switches between different camshaft profiles to boost performance at higher RPM. The system uses an oil-pressure-controlled spool valve and a pressure switch to engage VTEC, and the engine computer monitors whether the commanded change in valve operation actually occurs. The code sets when the computer detects that VTEC engagement or oil pressure is not matching expectations. It commonly causes reduced high-RPM power and a check engine light, and is frequently tied to oil level or oil pressure problems. On Acura specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P1259 on Acura vehicles?▼
Common causes on Acura: Low engine oil level or low oil pressure, Faulty VTEC solenoid or clogged solenoid screen, Faulty VTEC oil pressure switch, Dirty or degraded engine oil, Wiring or connector fault at the VTEC solenoid or switch. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P1259 on a Acura?▼
Repair costs on Acura range from $70 to $250, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Acura models have P1259 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P1259 on 1 Acura model: Integra.