AutoCodes – Generic – P281B

P281B Code - Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open

Quick Answer

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) receives information from a variety of sensors, switches, and serial data information from other control modules. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8, Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 harness is open or shorted, Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 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: P281B indicates Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8, Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 harness is open or shorted, Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 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 4,029

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 Aug 01, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P281B Description

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) receives information from a variety of sensors, switches, and serial data information from other control modules. This information is used to control a combination of solenoid valves to obtain the correct line pressure, gear ratio, and torque converter clutch operation. A solenoid valve is an electro-mechanically operated valve. The valve is controlled by an electric current through the solenoid. The TCM uses the vehicle speed signal to determine the actual gear position (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th. 5th or 6th gear). Then the TCM compares the actual gear with the shift schedule in the TCM memory to detect shift solenoid valves and valve body mechanical problems.

OBDII Code P281B - Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open - AutoCodes.com — P281B Code - Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P281B?

Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8
Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 harness is open or shorted
Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM)

How to Fix the DTC P281B?

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 P281B 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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Information for Specific Makes

P281B Buick — Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open
P281B Cadillac — Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open
P281B Chevrolet — Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open
P281B GMC — Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 8 Control Circuit Open

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.