Fault code lookup

PowertrainP1881

Caution

Severity: Caution - get it checked when you can

Short circuit to positive

19 brands affected · Description from BMW data.

Key terms: Control module: a small computer that runs one part of the car · Powertrain: engine, transmission and emissions

1What it means in plain English

The engine or powertrain control system has stored a fault that does not have specific guidance in this database yet.

2Common causes

  1. Sensor or actuator fault
  2. Wiring or connector fault
  3. Vacuum or intake leak
  4. Fuel or ignition problem
  5. Control module fault

3Can I drive?

Caution · drive with care

Have it diagnosed promptly. If the car runs and drives normally, drive gently to a workshop. If it runs badly, stalls, overheats, loses oil pressure, or a warning light is flashing or red, stop safely and get professional help. If the code concerns the brakes, brake vacuum or brake assist, do not drive until it is checked: a hard pedal or longer stopping distance means stop.

This page gives general information. It is not professional advice. For a definite diagnosis and a repair quote, ask a qualified mechanic to inspect the car.

4Brand data 19

BrandCodeDescriptionSystem
BMWP1881Short circuit to positive BrandPowertrain
CheryP1881Powertrain Data Bus: Missing Message: Acceleration Request BrandPowertrain
DaewooP18812-1 Shift Malfunction BrandPowertrain
DFFXP1881TCU (transmission controller) idle speed control load torque is invalid BrandPowertrain
DFXKP1881Powertrain Data Bus: Missing Message: Acceleration Request BrandPowertrain
EOBDP1881Sensor suhu BrandPowertrain
GeelyP1881Powertrain Data Bus: Missing Message: Acceleration Request BrandPowertrain
GMP1881Eng Coolant Level Switch Circ BrandPowertrain
HoldenP1881Engagement of 3rd Gear BrandPowertrain
HondaP1881No description available Powertrain
Land RoverP1881No description available Powertrain
MitsubishiP1881Mode switch not available BrandPowertrain
OpelP1881Eng Coolant Level Switch Circ BrandPowertrain
PeugeotP1881No description available Powertrain
ProtonP1881Mode switch not available BrandPowertrain
SaabP1881Eng Coolant Level Switch Circ BrandPowertrain
MG (SAIC)P1881Gear Engagement Error on 3rd gear BrandPowertrain
SuzukiP1881Gear Shift Actuator Circuit High BrandPowertrain
ToyotaP1881Engine coolant level switch circuit BrandPowertrain

Legend: SAE is the generic J2012 description; Brand is text taken from that manufacturer’s data. Manufacturer rows keep the wording and language of the source data, and non-English text is tagged so screen readers pronounce it correctly.

5Extended variant codes 3

These 7-character codes are manufacturer-specific variants of P1881 and may be reported by some scan tools.

BrandCodeDescriptionSystem
Mercedes-BenzP188100No description available Powertrain
SprinterP188100No description available Powertrain
SsangYongP188100Slave BSD Error BrandPowertrain

6Related codes

Browse Pxxx codes or P188xx codes.

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