C0431 Volkswagen Schwimmwagen Diagnostic Trouble Code

C0431 Volkswagen Schwimmwagen code definition:
C0431 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Volkswagen Schwimmwagen.

C0431 Volkswagen Schwimmwagen is defined as Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low. This means the CMP (camshaft position) sensor circuit on engine bank 1 sends an irregular reading. 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 C0431 Volkswagen Schwimmwagen diagnostic trouble code may include:

Fuel pressure too low
Rich or lean exhaust
Diminished fuel efficiency
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.

Possible Causes :

Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.
Rarely - faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM-programming required after replacement)
Faulty IMRC actuator/sensor

Common Misdiagnoses

Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Valve 1 Problem
BBV Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Problem
Transmission Engaged At High Throttle Angle Problem
Cruise Inhibit Control Circuit Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem

Repair Processes :

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. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for rubbing, scraping, bare wires, worn spots or melted plastic connectors.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C0431 Volkswagen Schwimmwagen 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 C0431 Volkswagen Schwimmwagen.

Fortunately, C0431 Volkswagen Schwimmwagen is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.