P281A BMW Fault Code

Description:

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Circuit High Input Indicates the sensor signal is greater than Self-Test maximum. The ECT sensor maximum is 4.6 volts or -50 C (-58 F). Note on some vehicles that are not equipped with an ECT sensor, CHT can be used and can set this DTC. Open circuit in harness Sensor signal short to power Damaged PCM Improper harness connection Damaged sensor ECT V PID reading greater than 4.6 volts with key ON and engine OFF or during any engine operating mode indicates a hard fault.

P281A Code Symptoms :

The scent may P281A signal oil or coolant leaking from their normally closed-loop systems, or it may indicate dangerous exhaust gases invading your car's interior. Car and truck exhaust contains toxic gases such P281A, so if the inside of your car as if you were standing behind your car, get out and get it fixed.
Fight the urge to take a little nap first. So sleepy. That's the carbon monoxide talking, friends. At least open a window on your way to the shop.

Diagnosis And Repairing P281A

Parts or components should not be replaced with reference to only a P281A DTC. The vehicle service manual should be consulted for more information on possible causes of the fault, along with required testing.

How to fix P281A code ?

• Camshaft advance mechanism binding (VCT unit)
• Erratic camshaft position due to low oil pressure
• Fuel injectors harness is open or shorted
• Continuous oil flow to the VCT piston chamber

A good starting point in your diagnosis is checking all system fuses and fusible links. This can be done using the BMW DVOM on the voltage setting. You will want to test the fuses with circuits loaded.

Some fuses will appear normal until a load is placed on their respective circuit; at which point they will fail. This has been the cause of many 'phantom malfunctions'. Consult your vehicle information source for fuse and fusible link locations. If all fuses are in working order, you may want to check TCM relay operation by swapping identical relays. Usually the horn relay, starter relay, fuel pump relay, air conditioning clutch relay, and controller relays are similar enough in design to swap for diagnostic purposes.