P318A Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre Diagnostic Trouble Code

P318A Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre code definition:
P318A is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre.

P318A Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre is defined as Knock Sensor Circuit Range Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This refers to camshaft timing, which in this case is over-retarded. 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 P318A Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre 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
Engine surge

Possible Causes :

Rarely - faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM-programming required after replacement)
Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short 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. You might continue by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P318A Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre 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 P318A Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre.

Fortunately, P318A Sunbeam-talbot 4-litre is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.