C0181 Citroen Traction Diagnostic Trouble Code

C0181 Citroen Traction code definition:
C0181 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Citroen Traction.

C0181 Citroen Traction is described as Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Circuit Malfunction. It's actually a general trouble code for a problem on IAT electrical circuit sensor, as it sends incorrect voltage input signals to the PCM. This is because the barometric pressure sensor is part of the MAF sensor. Sometimes, the MAF's sensing wire can accumulate and get covered with dirt, dust and/or oil residue, which can also lead to the error code.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C0181 Citroen Traction diagnostic trouble code may include:

Cherry red hot catalytic converter
Poor acceleration
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
Hesitation upon acceleration

Possible Causes :

Some aftermarket accessories and performance modifications
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.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Common Misdiagnoses

Vehicle Speed Output Circuit Problem
Cruise Control Servo Indicates Low Problem
A/C System High Pressure High Temperature Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem
Transmission Control Module Reprogrammable Memory Problem

Repair Processes :

Replace the oxygen sensor that is downstream from the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1. Also, if a oxygen sensor code stating "heater circuit malfunction" the sensor has most probably failed. With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground. If you find a related TSB, the information will often help in diagnosing the code in question as TSBs are crested from many thousands of repairs.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C0181 Citroen Traction 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 C0181 Citroen Traction.

Fortunately, C0181 Citroen Traction is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.