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P381A BMW Fault Code

Check P381A OBD Fault Code Reason
Description:

The input turbine speed sensor detects rotation of the input shaft of the input shaft speed sensor transmission. The computer uses that information, along with the output shaft speed sensor to determine if the transmission is operating according to plan. If the computer detects a difference between the input shaft speed , and the expected output shaft speed, it will adjust transmission pump pressure to prevent clutch disc slip. If adding pressure doesn't solve the problem, it will set a trouble code.

P381A Code Symptoms :

See P381A in engine

There are currently two main types of cylinder deactivation used today, depending on the type of engine. P381A code for the pushrod design which uses solenoids to alter the oil pressure delivered to the lifters. In their collapsed state, the lifters are unable to elevate their companion pushrods under the valve rocker arms, resulting in valves that cannot be actuated and remain closed.

Diagnosis And Repairing P381A

P381A OBD 2 code on vehicles with electronically controlled automatic transmissions, the 3-4 shift solenoid is responsible for actuating the hydraulic circuits to activate clutches or bands that change gears inside the automatic transmission.

How to fix P381A code ?

See P381A repair manual
  • Damaged VCT phaser
  • Damaged ECM
  • Faulty TCM or TCM programming
  • Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted

Some systems require that the actuator has an adequate supply of brake fluid. Low brake fluid levels can mimic the symptoms of code P381A, so consult the manual to locate the brake fluid reservoir.

Bear in mind that a low fluid level can set code P381A on some applications, so make sure that on fluid operated systems the fluid level is up to the mark before starting an electrical diagnosis.

BMW Cars that meet P381A error