B3181 Lotus 79 Diagnostic Trouble Code

B3181 Lotus 79 code definition:
B3181 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic B-Body Diagnostic Trouble Code for Lotus 79.

B3181 Lotus 79 is described as Fuel System Too Rich, which basically means bank 1's oxygen sensor has detected a rich condition of fuel. This means there's not enough oxygen in the exhaust from too much fuel being delivered into the air and gas mixture for combusion. The spark should have a light tan color. If the sensor probe comes with white and chalky parts, this means it has been lagging between switching phases, and should be replaced.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a B3181 Lotus 79 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
Carbon Buildup on O2 Sensor
Poor fuel economy
Engine surge

Possible Causes :

Rusty exhaust systems, cracked exhaust manifolds or damaged or missing gaskets or donuts will cause air leaks.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code
Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.

Common Misdiagnoses

Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem
Park/Neutral Postion (PNP) Switch Circuit Engine Torque Signal Circuit Problem

Repair Processes :

Use the DVOM to test resistance and continuity on all system circuits if actuator and sensor resistance levels are in compliance with manufacturer's specifications. Find out what kind of system you have and verify that voltage to the fuel level sensor is present at the fuel pump wiring harness.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code B3181 Lotus 79 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before B3181 Lotus 79.

Fortunately, B3181 Lotus 79 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.