P081E Excessive Clutch “B” Slippage

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P081E Excessive Clutch “B” Slippage

OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Excessive Clutch B Slippage

What does that mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Volkswagen, Porsche, Honda, Audi, Acura, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.

If your vehicle has stored a code P081E, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has received a data input signal from the input and output speed sensors which indicates that the clutch is slipping excessively. The denotation clutch B indicates that the vehicle is equipped with a clutch (pedal) position sensor (CPPS) which functions similarly to a throttle position sensor (TPS).

The transmission control module (TCM) may be a stand alone unit but is most commonly integrated into a single housing with the engine control module (ECM). This is called the PCM.

The PCM utilizes input signals from multiple engine and transmission sensors to calculate the maximum allowable degree of transmission (clutch) slippage. Clutch disc and pressure plate wear, as well as mechanical failure, may lead to excessive clutch slippage. Discrepancies in CPPS voltage may also result in a P081E being stored. The PCM uses voltage input signals from the transmission input speed sensor and transmission output speed sensor, as well as the position of the clutch pedal, to determine if the clutch is functioning within the parameters for maximum allowable slippage.

Often when the friction material on the clutch disc is worn down below a certain level, the clutch begins to slip. This condition is usually accompanied by the distinctive odor of burnt friction material.

If the PCM detects a degree of transmission (clutch) slippage that exceeds maximum allowable parameters, a code P081E may be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated. Multiple ignition cycles (with a failure) may be required for MIL illumination.

What is the severity of this DTC?

A stored code P081E indicates that either a serious electrical issue or some type of clutch failure has occurred. At any rate, conditions which contributed to a code of this nature being stored should be rectified as quickly as possible.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P081E trouble code may include:

  • Transmission slippage
  • Harsh gear engagement
  • Clutch engagement occurs near the top
  • Strong odor of burnt friction material
  • What are some of the common causes of the code?

    Causes for this code may include:

  • Bad CPPS sensor
  • Worn clutch disc and/or pressure plate
  • Defective input or output speed sensor
  • Shorted wiring for input speed/output speed sensors
  • Faulty PCM or a programming error
  • What are some P081E troubleshooting steps?

    Before attempting to diagnose a P081E, make sure that the clutch, pressure plate, and throwout bearing are functioning properly. You will also want to check clutch arms and bushings as well as clutch hydraulics if applicable.

    A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a source of vehicle specific diagnostic information will be required to diagnose a code P081E. An oscilloscope may also be helpful when attempting to diagnose input and output speed sensor malfunctions. CPPS output voltage can also be monitored using the DVOM or oscilloscope. The latter is more effective for the detection of voltage spikes and glitches.

    You may use your source of vehicle information to locate a technical service bulletin (TSB) that matches the vehicle year, make, and model; as well as the engine size, code/s stored, and symptoms exhibited. If you find one, it could yield helpful diagnostic information.

    With the clutch functioning properly, proceed with the first step of the diagnosis.

    Step 1

    Use the scanner (connected to the vehicle diagnostic connector) to retrieve all stored codes and pertinent freeze frame data. It is a good idea to write this information down before clearing the codes then test-drive the vehicle until the PCM either enters readiness mode or the code is reset.

    If the PCM enters readiness mode at this time, the code is intermittent and may be much more difficult to diagnose. If this is the case, the conditions which contributed to the code being stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.

    Step 2

    If the code is immediately reset, the next step of your diagnosis will require that you search your vehicle information source for diagnostic flow-charts, connector pin-out charts, connector face views, and component testing procedures/specifications.

    Step 3

    Use the DVOM to test voltage, ground, and signal at the transmission input and output speed sensors (key on and engine off). Input and output speed sensor circuits typically consist of a reference voltage, a signal wire, and a ground.

    Step 4

    Use the oscilloscope (connected to the signal circuit and ground) to check for spikes and glitches in the CPPS signal range.

  • Most clutch B slippage codes can be attributed to CPPS failure
  • Need help?

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    "Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p081e in the ECU"

    In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p081e and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.

    Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p081e.

    Make an appointment for permanent removal of p081e