P281E OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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If you find that your car isn’t working as usual and is showing some problems, then you must be having an OBD code set too. The P281E code is related to the transmission and is defined as a Pressure Control Solenoid "H" Control Circuit High. You may wonder what a pressure control solenoid is, well, it’s used by the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to control the hydraulic pressure in the transmission. The need for controlling this is to allow the application of the many clutch packs that help shift gear in the ratio needed to propel the vehicle on the road.

When the pressure control solenoids aren’t functioning normally the P281E code will be set, and the check engine light will go on to alert the driver.

The automatic transmission works with a lot of elements so that the gears can change as needed and the drivability of the vehicle is safe. Bands and clutches control the transmission, which change the gears. The gear changing happens by the pressure of the fluid at the right time as needed. The transmission control solenoid adjusts these pressures so that the transmission works efficiently as required by the driver. The PCM being the central processing unit, overlooks the pressure within the solenoid and directs the fluid to the correct hydraulic circuits which change the transmission gear ratio. Any fault in this leads the PCM to set the P281E code.

What causes this problem with the Pressure Control Solenoid "H" Control Circuit High?

• Faulty pressure control solenoid
• Dirty and impure transmission fluid
• Restrictions in the transmission filter
• Defect in the transmission pump
• Issues with the transmission valve body
• Restricted hydraulic passages
• Corroded or damaged wiring and connectors
• Problematic PCM module

1. Transmission Control Module - Is the module that is responsible for the auto transmission in your vehicle. An issue with it can cause the P281E error. To ro repair the problem with your TCM or simply opt for replacement. You can find the perfect fitment for your vehicle on PartsAvatar.
2. Pressure Control Solenoid - Has the important job of controlling the fluid pressure so that different gears can be applied. A problematic PCS caused the P281E code to set. Fix this issue via repairs and see if that helps, otherwise you will have to opt for replacement.
3. Transmission Valve Body - A component which works in a network form. It gives direction to the pressurized transmission fluid to a network of valves that apply appropriate clutch packs so that the gear can function smoothly. Resolve the issue that you have found through repairs, or go for replacement. We have made replacements easy online, simply select your vehicle's make, model and year of manufacture and find the perfect fitment. You will receive your order in just a matter of days!
4. Transmission Gear - Is the part that helps to propel the vehicle at the right speed. An issue with it should resolved soon, as a faulty gear can cause the P281E code to set. Find replacement today, order from the comfort of your home on PartsAvatar and have it delivered right to your doorstep.
5. Transmission Pump - The pump performs the job of pumping right amount of hydraulic fluid into the transmission system. Fix the issues you have found via repairs, or go for replacement.
6. Transmission Fluid - Is very important, and should always be at the right level and free from contamination. A dirty fluid can cause multiple issues and have adverse effects on the drivability of the vehicle. Get your transmission fluid refill from PartsAvatar.
7. Transmission Filter - A faulty, damaged, blocked transmission filter can lower your fuel economy and negatively impact the transmission system. Find the replacement on PartsAvatar, we ship to the remotest corners of Canada.
8. Powertrain Control Module - The PCM is your vehicles brain, it will set the P281E code when it picks up issues. In order to ensure your PCM is working fine, perform the diagnostics and correct it via repairs or replacement. We will ship your orders over $99 free! Order your PCM replacement today!

For us our customers are everything, and that’s why we will help you to diagnose P281E code by mentioning some important symptoms below:

Common Symptoms

• Increase in the fuel consumption
• The Check Engine Light is illuminated
• The transmission overheats frequently
• Transmission is slipping occasionally when shifting
• It’s becoming hard to shift transmission
• Presence of misfire-like symptoms
• The transmission has entered limp mode by the command of the PCM

After you know the symptoms of your vehicle’s problem, it becomes easy to detect it and get started with solving it. So, next on our list is few common steps to correct this issue with your vehicle’s.

• Change the filter and the fluid with fresh fluid
• You will have to replace the damaged Pressure Control Solenoid
• Try to repair, and if needed replace the problematic transmission pump
• Repair the defective transmission valve body or replace it
• You may have to flush the transmission to be able to clean the passages 
• Carefully clean out all dirt and corrosion from the connectors
• The faulty wiring present will have to be replaced if repairs don’t resolve the issue
• Fault with the PCM will have to be resolved by either flashing or replacing it

To do all this, you will need few high quality auto parts such as Transmission Control Module, Pressure Control Solenoid, Transmission Valve Body, Transmission Gear, Transmission Pump, Transmission Fluid, Transmission Filter, Pcm and so on. From where will you get them? From your local store? Well, why go there when you can order quality parts with us while sitting in the comfort of your home. So, just browse through our website and order your needed parts today.

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P281E code to be stored:

Begin by checking the level of fluid and see the condition of it. There may be debris or other contaminants present. Refer the vehicles records to check when the filter and fluid was changed last, accordingly proceed with changing the fluid or clearing out the filter. Now perform a visual inspection for any issue with the wiring and circuitry. Make sure to include all the wiring and connectors that go to the transmission pressure control solenoids, the transmission pump as well as the PCM. Get hold of a digital multimeter and the Technical Service Bulletins of you vehicle. From the TSB you can get all the specifics for troubleshooting the P281E code, makes sure you match them perfectly to the make model, year and engine of your vehicle. You will also find all the voltage requirements in the TSBs as well. Based on the transmission design and configuration of your vehicle the specifications will differ including the fluid pressure requirements. Check continuity, the normal readings are usually 0 ohms of resistance for wiring and connectors, but to be sure refer the technical data for your specific vehicle. Make sure you perform the continuity checks with the power removed from the circuit, this is important to avoid shorting the circuit or causing more damage. Presence of resistance or lack of continuity is a sign of faulty wiring, which may be open/ shorted. You will have to repair or replace it as needed.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P281E Code

• Failed Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure
• Lower than required Transmission fluid level
• Full failure of the Transmission pressure control solenoid
• Wiring is showing issues