AutoCodes – Generic – P1881

P1881 Code - Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure

Quick Answer

P1881 indicates Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Level Switch, Engine Coolant Level Switch harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Level 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: P1881 indicates Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Level Switch, Engine Coolant Level Switch harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Level 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 6,511

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 25, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1881 Description

OBDII Code P1881 - Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure - AutoCodes.com — P1881 Code - Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1881?

Faulty Engine Coolant Level Switch
Engine Coolant Level Switch harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Level Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1881?

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 P1881 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.

Need more information about the P1881 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1881 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P1881 Ford — Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure
P1881 Lincoln — Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure
P1881 Mercury — Engine Coolant Level Switch Circuit Failure

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.