AutoCodes – Mercedes-Benz – P2081 Mercedes-Benz

P2081 Mercedes-Benz Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent Bank 1 Sensor 1

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continuously monitors the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) for proper circuit continuity and out of range high values. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 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
P2081 Mercedes-Benz indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent Bank 1 Sensor 1.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 16,307
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 26, 2021
πŸ’¬ Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers β€” it's free!

Code P2081 Mercedes-Benz Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continuously monitors the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) for proper circuit continuity and out of range high values. The EGTS is located in front of the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and/or in front of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The EGTS detects exhaust gas temperature and converts it into a voltage and feeds back to the PCM with the voltage signal in order to control engine conditions to effectively reduce emissions. The PCM sets the P2081 OBDII code when the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor is out of factory specifications.
OBDII Code P2081 Mercedes-Benz - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent Bank 1 Sensor 1 - AutoCodes.com
P2081 Mercedes-Benz Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent Bank 1 Sensor 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2081 Mercedes-Benz?

  • Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 1
  • Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
  • Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Exhaust leaks
  • Excessive particulate matter buildup on sensor

How to Fix the DTC P2081 Mercedes-Benz?

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 P2081 Mercedes-Benz 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 P2081 Mercedes-Benz code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2081 Mercedes-Benz code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2081 Mercedes-Benz code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P2081 Mercedes-Benz Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2081 in a Mercedes-Benz?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, rough idling, and the illumination of the check engine light.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P2081 to appear in a Mercedes-Benz?

- The code P2081 typically appears due to a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, wiring issues, or problems with the sensor circuit.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P2081 in my Mercedes-Benz?

- Diagnosing the code involves checking the exhaust gas temperature sensor, inspecting the sensor's wiring for damage, and testing the sensor circuit for proper functioning.

4. Can I continue driving my Mercedes-Benz with OBDII code P2081 present?

- It is not recommended to drive with the code present, as it can lead to potential engine damage and may cause further issues with the vehicle's performance.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P2081 in my Mercedes-Benz?

- Repairing the code typically involves replacing the faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, and resetting the fault codes using an OBDII scanner.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P2081 in a Mercedes-Benz without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can reset the code using an OBDII scanner, it is important to address the underlying issue to prevent the code from reappearing and causing further problems.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P2081 in a Mercedes-Benz?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor yourself. However, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P2081 in a Mercedes-Benz?

- The cost of repairing the code can vary depending on the extent of the issue, the parts needed, and the labor costs. It is advisable to get a few quotes from different mechanics to compare prices.

9. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code P2081 in a Mercedes-Benz?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking the exhaust system for leaks and ensuring proper sensor function, can help prevent the occurrence of code P2081 in your Mercedes-Benz.

10. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P2081 in a Mercedes-Benz?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the code and the availability of parts. In general, it may take a few hours to a full day to diagnose and repair the issue.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P2081 Mercedes-Benz OBDII Code

Code P2081 Mercedes-Benz comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play