P1381 Pontiac Code - Misfire Detected - No Communication with Brake Control Module
Quick Answer
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) receives rough road information from the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) on the serial data circuit. Common causes include Repair other codes first. 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
- P1381 Pontiac indicates Misfire Detected - No Communication with Brake Control Module.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Repair other codes first.
- 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.
Code P1381 Pontiac Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1381 Pontiac?
- Repair other codes first
How to Fix the DTC P1381 Pontiac?
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.
Code Tech Notes
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P1381 Pontiac 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P1381 Pontiac Code
What does the OBDII code P1381 mean on a Pontiac?
P1381 indicates a misfire has been detected, and the engine control module (ECM) is unable to communicate with the brake control module (BCM) to retrieve specific data.
What are the common symptoms of the P1381 code on a Pontiac?
Symptoms may include a check engine light, rough idling, engine misfires, reduced engine performance, and possibly issues with ABS or traction control systems.
What causes the P1381 code to appear on a Pontiac?
Common causes include a faulty brake control module, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor, or a failing ECM.
Can a faulty brake control module cause engine misfires?
Yes, if the brake control module cannot communicate with the ECM, it may prevent accurate misfire detection and contribute to engine performance issues.
How do I diagnose the P1381 code on my Pontiac?
Perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors, check for ABS-related codes, test the brake control module, and inspect the crankshaft position sensor for faults.
Can I still drive my Pontiac with the P1381 code active?
Driving with this code is not recommended, as engine misfires can cause further damage to the engine or catalytic converter if left unaddressed.
How do I fix the P1381 code on my Pontiac?
Repairs may involve replacing the brake control module, repairing damaged wiring, replacing the crankshaft position sensor, or updating or reprogramming the ECM.
Does the P1381 code only affect the engine?
No, this code can also impact the ABS and traction control systems, as it involves communication with the brake control module.
How much does it cost to repair the P1381 code on a Pontiac?
The repair cost can vary widely, ranging from $100 to $1,000 depending on whether the issue involves wiring repairs, sensor replacement, or module replacement.
Do I need special tools to fix the P1381 code on a Pontiac?
Yes, you may need an advanced OBDII scanner capable of reading ABS and BCM data, as well as tools for testing wiring and sensors.
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