What Is the P1381 Code?
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If you have a vehicle that has variable camshaft timing or variable valve timing capability, code P1381 is often registered when the timing is above the parameters set by the manufacturer. It can also appear when the valve control system is faulty, and even by a faulty powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM).
In other vehicles, the error code is registered when the PCM notes a significant variation in crankshaft deceleration and is not able to communicate with the brake control module (BCM) to establish the cause of the variation.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P1381 Code?
Code P1381 typically affects the engine more than it does other parts, like the drivetrain. As such, you may have trouble getting the engine started and experience poor idling. If the problem is well advanced, the vehicle may stall. When caused by a misfire, the error code may cause transmission problems. As with most codes, P1381 will trigger the check engine light.
What Are Some Causes of a P1381 Code?
There are two causes of a P1381 code: over-advanced variable camshaft timing and engine misfire. The first problem occurs when the variable valve timing (VVT) or variable camshaft timing (VCT) exceeds the maximum allowed parameters. These systems are designed to modulate engine performance in various circumstances by opening the cylinder valves for variable time periods.
The manufacturers set the maximum time periods for each valve opening and when the VVT or VCT exceeds the set time, errors occur. The Bank #1 specification simply implies that the error affects the group of cylinders containing cylinder one.
The second cause doesn’t necessarily mean the engine is misfiring. Instead, the error is logged when the PCM is unable to read road conditions. As such, it treats every crankshaft deceleration as an engine misfire. This problem normally comes when the PCM loses communication with the BCM.
How Serious Is the P1381 Code?
Code P1381 is a rather serious problem, as it affects different key parts of your powertrain. The code, may for instance, be triggered by circuit issues, low engine oil level or issues with the powertrain itself. These problems can worsen with time and significantly increase your inspection bills.
Where the issue is caused by lack of communication between the PCM and BCM, most cars will resort to basic brakes only. This effectively means no anti-lock brakes, and no advanced brake warning system, which can significantly affect drivability.
You should therefore take your vehicle for inspection as soon as you see the error code pop up.
Can I Still Drive with a P1381 Code?
Even with the P1381 error code showing, you can still drive your vehicle. However, you should be prepared for minimal disruptions and discomfort while on the road, including but not limited to, excessive engine vibration and intermittent loss of power.
To put it simply, if you really have to drive, ensure you first take a visit to your nearest service center for a detailed inspection.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1381 Code?
A P1381 error code is a tad too complicated for a layman to diagnose unless you possess a high level of technical knowledge and an OBD scanner. So, if you have a scanner, plug it in and read all the data from the PCM and the ECM. More experienced professionals may go a step further and look for additional error codes that may also be present and reset them.
Thereafter, do a physical inspection of the VTC solenoid, connector’s pins, and wiring to check for any damaged or loose components and repair/ replace any problematic parts.
If all components are intact, check the engine oil. Overly viscous oil does not flow well to and from the camshaft so always ensure the oil in your engine has flat or very minimal viscosity and replace it regularly.
If the code is still there even after replacing the engine oil and repairing the components, try checking your vehicle’s service manual for additional clues and instructions. You may also want to check whether your PCM and ECM are working correctly.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1381 Code?
Since Error Code P1381 affects major engine, transmission, and powertrain components, inspecting it can be a frustrating and time-consuming endeavor if you are not a professional technician. Even beyond that, taking a DIY approach can lead to further damage, as you are likely to misdiagnose the problem and provide wrong solutions.
As such, you are better off having a credible service center inspect your vehicle, particularly one affiliated with your vehicle’s manufacturer. Apart from having better diagnostic tools and experience with your car brand, such centers are also likely to sell parts far cheaper than other dealers.
Need Additional Help with Your P1381 Code?
Despite code P1381 being a benign issue in its first stages, it can “blow up” significantly if left unchecked. Apart from having an expert on call, you may want to familiarize yourself with other common error codes from the KBB OBD-II database so you can know when your car is experiencing problems and how to correct them.
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