AutoCodes – Generic – P2581

P2581 Code - Turbocharger Speed Sensor Circuit High

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Turbocharger Speed Sensor circuit signal. Common causes include Faulty Turbocharger Speed Sensor, Turbocharger Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Turbocharger Speed Sensor 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: P2581 indicates Turbocharger Speed Sensor Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Turbocharger Speed Sensor, Turbocharger Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Turbocharger Speed Sensor 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 6,098

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 Jan 19, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P2581 Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Turbocharger Speed Sensor circuit signal. the PCM sets the OBDII code when the Turbocharger Speed Sensor signal is out of factory specifications.

OBDII Code P2581 - Turbocharger Speed Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P2581 Code - Turbocharger Speed Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2581?

Faulty Turbocharger Speed Sensor
Turbocharger Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
Turbocharger Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P2581?

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 P2581 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 P2581 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2581 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P2581 Chevrolet — Turbocharger Speed Sensor Circuit High
P2581 Dodge — Turbocharger Speed Sensor Circuit High
P2581 GMC — Turbocharger Speed Sensor Circuit High

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.