AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B0981 Chevrolet

B0981 Chevrolet Code - Transmission Winter Mode Switch Short to Ground

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Transmission Winter Mode Switch. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Winter Mode Switch, Transmission Winter Mode Switch harness is open or shorted, Transmission Winter Mode Switch circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: B0981 Chevrolet indicates Transmission Winter Mode Switch Short to Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transmission Winter Mode Switch, Transmission Winter Mode Switch harness is open or shorted, Transmission Winter Mode Switch circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 1,139

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 11, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0981 Chevrolet Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Transmission Winter Mode Switch. The PCM sets the OBDII code when the Transmission Winter Mode Switch is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code B0981 Chevrolet - Transmission Winter Mode Switch Short to Ground - AutoCodes.com — B0981 Chevrolet Code - Transmission Winter Mode Switch Short to Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0981 Chevrolet?

Faulty Transmission Winter Mode Switch
Transmission Winter Mode Switch harness is open or shorted
Transmission Winter Mode Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B0981 Chevrolet?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0981 Chevrolet code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B0981 Chevrolet Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet (Transmission Winter Mode Switch Short to Ground)?

The common symptoms include the inability to engage winter mode in the transmission, an illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL), and possible transmission shifting issues.

2. What causes the OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet to trigger?

The code B0981 is triggered when there is a short circuit to ground in the winter mode switch circuit of the transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet?

Diagnosing this code involves inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the winter mode switch, testing the switch itself for proper functionality, and checking for any visible signs of damage or corrosion.

4. Can a faulty transmission winter mode switch cause code B0981 Chevrolet?

Yes, a faulty transmission winter mode switch can cause the code B0981 to be triggered due to a short circuit to ground in the switch circuit.

5. What is the recommended repair for OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet?

The recommended repair involves addressing the root cause of the short circuit to ground, which may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring, connectors, or the transmission winter mode switch itself.

6. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet?

While diagnosing and repairing this code may require some technical knowledge, DIY enthusiasts can start by carefully inspecting the wiring and connectors for any visible issues before seeking professional help if needed.

7. Can OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet be safely ignored?

It is not recommended to ignore this code, as it can indicate an underlying issue with the transmission winter mode switch circuit that may affect the functionality of the transmission system.

8. How serious is OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet?

While the code B0981 itself may not directly impact the drivability of the vehicle, it is important to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent potential transmission problems in the future.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet?

The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the extent of the damage and whether any parts need to be replaced. It is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate cost estimate.

10. Can a scan tool reset OBDII code B0981 Chevrolet?

Resetting the code with a scan tool is possible after the underlying issue has been diagnosed and repaired. However, simply clearing the code without addressing the root cause may lead to it reoccurring.