P1EF3 Tornado Thunderbolt Diagnostic Trouble Code

P1EF3 Tornado Thunderbolt code definition:
P1EF3 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Tornado Thunderbolt.

P1EF3 Tornado Thunderbolt is triggered when the bank 1 camshaft position sensor doesn't match the signal from the crankshaft position sensor. 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 P1EF3 Tornado Thunderbolt diagnostic trouble code may include:

Engine surge
Blown fuse (if applicable)
Lack of power
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
Rarely - faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM-programming required after replacement)

Common Misdiagnoses

TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem
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. 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. Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P1EF3 Tornado Thunderbolt 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 P1EF3 Tornado Thunderbolt.

Fortunately, P1EF3 Tornado Thunderbolt is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.