C0081 Diagnostic Trouble Code

C0081 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code.

It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles, although specific repair steps may be different depending on your car model.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C0081 diagnostic trouble code may include:

The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
Faulty PCM
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels

Possible Causes :

A faulty oxygen sensor. This will set a code in itself, however, a faulty oxygen sensor does not automatically condemn the sensor. The code just means that the sensor signal was not within specifications. An air leak or any of the above will cause an erroneous signal. There is a multitude of O2 codes relating to O2 performance which gives a clue to the problematic area.
Some aftermarket accessories and performance modifications
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Repair Processes :

Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector. If all testing has passed so far yet you still have the same code, check your scan tool and see if it can open and close the IMRC valve.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C0081 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 C0081.

Fortunately, C0081 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.

C0081 Trouble Code For Specific Cars

C0081 Porsche 907 Front Wiper Select Switch "B" Short to Ground
C0081 Dodge Hemi Ignition Control (IC) Circuit Low Voltage
C0081 Nissan 270 Chime Input Request Circuit Short To Ground
C0081 Ford F-150 Memory Set Switch Circuit Short To Ground
C0081 Gaz 36 O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
C0081 Gaz 3110 O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
C0081 Chrysler Four Evaporative Emission Control System Control Valve