Quick Answer
P0981 means: DTC P0981 indicates an issue with the transmission fluid temperature sensor 'C' circuit.
Can I drive with P0981? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does P0981 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC P0981 indicates a malfunction in the transmission fluid temperature sensor 'C' circuit. This can lead to overheating, erratic shifting, and reduced performance, ultimately affecting your vehicle's drivability and safety.
What are the most common causes of P0981 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, wiring issues, and low transmission fluid. Repair costs can range from $100 to $300, depending on the severity and required parts.
Can I drive my car with P0981 or should I stop immediately?
While you may still be able to drive your car, it is not advisable to ignore the P0981 code. Continuing to drive can lead to severe transmission damage, so it's best to have your vehicle diagnosed as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose P0981 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve the P0981 code. Check the freeze frame data for context, and consider testing the transmission fluid temperature sensor with a multimeter for accurate readings.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0981?
Common vehicles include the 2015-2020 Honda Accord and the 2016-2021 Toyota Camry, among others. Check for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to transmission issues for your specific model.
How can I prevent P0981 from happening again?
Regular maintenance is key. Ensure you change your transmission fluid at recommended intervals, inspect wiring for wear, and use quality parts during repairs to prevent recurrence of P0981.
What is P0981?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0981 relates to a problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor 'C' circuit range/performance. This code indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected an abnormal voltage level from the transmission temperature sensor, which can signal overheating or incorrect readings from the sensor itself. When this code is triggered, it often results in the check engine light illuminating on your dashboard. This can lead to various performance issues, such as erratic shifting, reduced acceleration, or even transmission failure if left unaddressed. Vehicle owners may experience symptoms like poor fuel efficiency and irregular transmission behavior, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. It is crucial to address this code promptly, as neglecting it could lead to serious transmission damage. Many common vehicles affected by this code include the 2015-2020 Honda Accord and the 2016-2021 Toyota Camry. Regular maintenance and timely diagnostics using tools like the GeekOBD APP can help catch issues early, preventing costly repairs down the line.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0981 is present:
- Check engine light remains on continuously, indicating a persistent issue with the transmission system.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, which may feel like the vehicle is stuttering or struggling to gain speed.
- Fuel economy decreases significantly, often by 10-15%, resulting in more frequent trips to the gas station.
- Transmission shifts abruptly or delays when changing gears, leading to a rough driving experience.
- Unusual smells or signs of overheating, such as a burning odor, may occur if the transmission is overheating.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0981 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor (60% likelihood) - The sensor may be malfunctioning, sending incorrect data to the ECM.
- Wiring issues (20% likelihood) - Damaged or corroded wiring can lead to poor connections and erroneous readings.
- Transmission fluid issues (10% likelihood) - Low or dirty transmission fluid can affect sensor performance, leading to overheating.
- ECM malfunction (5% likelihood) - In rare cases, the engine control module itself may be faulty, misinterpreting sensor data.
- Poor maintenance practices (5% likelihood) - Neglecting regular fluid changes can exacerbate transmission issues.
P0981 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty sensor can resolve the P0981 code and improve transmission function.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring can restore proper function to the sensor circuit.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P0981
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0981 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0981. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission fluid temperature sensor (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission fluid temperature sensor (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify proper operation of the sensor and clear the codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify proper operation of the sensor and clear the codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the success of the repair (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the success of the repair (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Transmission Temperature Sensor Replacement in a 2017 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2017 Honda Accord, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light and rough shifting.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed P0981. Inspected wiring and found no damage, but the temperature sensor was faulty.
Solution: Replaced the transmission fluid temperature sensor and refilled transmission fluid.
Cost: $250 (sensor $120, labor $130)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle shifted smoothly, and the check engine light was cleared.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair in a 2019 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2019 Toyota Camry, 30,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced check engine light and inconsistent transmission performance.
Diagnosis: P0981 was confirmed; wiring to the sensor was damaged.
Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and secured connections.
Cost: $150 (labor $100, parts $50)
Result: After repairs, the vehicle functioned normally with no further issues.