P1CAE Mercedes-benz 380 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P1CAE Mercedes-benz 380 code definition:
P1CAE is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Mercedes-benz 380.

P1CAE Mercedes-benz 380 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. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P1CAE Mercedes-benz 380 diagnostic trouble code may include:

If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
Corroded or damaged connector
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels
The engine oil will exhibit dilution from the ECUs attempts to increase engine temperature. Some vehicles advance the fuel injection timing slightly after top center to afterburn a small amount of fuel to increase exhaust temperatures. Some of this fuel enters the crankcase. When the ECU determines the necessity to regenerate the DPF, the service life of the oil be shortened significantly

Possible Causes :

A large vacuum leak would cause a massive amount of un-metered air to enter the intake manifold resulting in an overly lean mixture.
Faulty IMRC actuator/sensor
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly

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 :

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. Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P1CAE Mercedes-benz 380 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 P1CAE Mercedes-benz 380.

Fortunately, P1CAE Mercedes-benz 380 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.