P0081 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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Has your car gone into failsafe mode? Are you experiencing the problem of engine stalling and not responding? Is the Check Engine Light On and you feel drop in the fuel economy and loss of acceleration? All these are the indication of OBD Code P0081 error being stored in the PCM and getting flashed.

OBD-II Code decreased engine performance is defined as an Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit.

The Intake Valve Control Solenoid uses oil pressure and an electrical solenoid to control the position of the exhaust valve. Newer vehicles are equipped with variable valve timing (VVT). This allows the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to adjust the opening and closing of the exhaust valve to improve fuel consumption while still providing the performance requested by the driver. When the PCM determines there is an issue with the signal from the Intake Valve Control Solenoid, the PCM will set code P0081.

What causes the problem of Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit (Bank 2)?

• Bank 2 Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Failure
• ECM/PCM Failure
• Opened or Short Wiring and Harness
• Electrical Connections to the Circuit and Sensor are poor
• Low Engine Oil Level

1. Engine Control Module - If there is any fault detected in the control solenoid circuit, it will get stored in the ECM and flash OBD Code P0081. Replace faulty ECM components now!
2. Variable Valve Timing - It is used to improve the performance, fuel economy or emissions of the vehicle. Thus, it is important to keep this part in check. Replace the faulty components immediately.
3. Intake Manifold Solenoid - Faulty solenoid will hamper the intake system performance adversely and thus, should be replaced immediately.
4. Diagnostic Tools - Use professional level tools to detect and correct the OBD code problems. Buy now!

Most noticeable symptoms include rough engine idle, irregular acceleration, poor engine performance, and reduced fuel efficiency accompanied by illumination of Check Engine Light.

• The first symptom can be that the ECM (Engine Control Module) detects a fault with the intake valve control solenoid and sets the Check Engine Light to illuminate on the vehicle’s dashboard.
• As the Check Engine Light illuminates, the ECM triggers a failsafe mode which disables the variable valve timing to stop further damage to the engine.
• Faulty variable valve timing will lead to reduced performance, fuel economy and increased emissions.

It is important to correct the faulty components as you find the problem in them and can be the major reasons of flashing OBD Code P0081. 

• Replacement of Engine Control Module (ECM)
• Replacement of Intake Valve Control Solenoid Bank 2
• Repair/Replace Faulty Wiring and Connections associated to the Sensor and Circuit 

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Since this DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) references a circuit problem, use a DVOM to diagnose the problem. The main focus of the diagnosis should be the circuit between the ECM and the VVT solenoid valve, as well as the solenoid valve itself.

• Any qualified mechanic that has experience should be able to easily diagnose OBD Code P0081 error. An OBD-II scanning tool has to be installed into the vehicle’s DLC port and checked for any OBD codes present. There can be a possibility of more than one code present. Then, freeze frame data for all codes and keep them noted.
• Then the code is cleared and the vehicle is taken on a road test. The road test has to be done at similar circumstances to the freeze frame data such as engine load, RPMs, speed, and operating temperatures.
• If the Check Engine Light gets illuminated during the road test diagnostics, then proceed to a visual inspection of the wiring harness and connectors in the Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Bank 2.
• Observe solenoid operation with the live sensor data using the scan tools. This will track changes over time and show solenoid voltage, resistance and let us know, if the solenoid is operating properly or not.
• If the solenoid is working properly, then the ECM should be checked for any issues and faults. Each vehicle and manufacturer have its own distinct testing procedures and those should be followed taking into consideration the user manuals for that particular make and model for right assistance.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0081 Code

A qualified mechanic can easily diagnose P0081 error under normal circumstances. An intermittent occurrence is an issue that becomes extremely difficult to track down. It is imperative that each step is followed in the proper order without skipping steps. Always check for wiring problems and connection issues, before directly jumping to ECM/PCM or the solenoid circuit.