P2881 BMW Fault Code

Description:

The Throttle Position sensor signals the Engine Control Module as to the current position of the engine throttle valve.
The current throttle valve opening is based on the driver's input from the gas pedal.

The ECM uses the information from this sensor to help calculate fuel delivery and spark timing.

P2881 Code Symptoms :

When you turn on the ignition, the Service Engine Soon or Check Engine P2881 light should flash briefly, indicating that the OBD system is ready to scan your vehicle for any malfunctions. After this brief flash, the light should stay off while you drive as long as no problems are detected. If so, you'll be glad to know that your vehicle is equipped with an early warning system that could save you time, money, and fuel in addition to helping protect the P2881!

Diagnosis And Repairing P2881

P2881 OBD2 reports a sensor fault, replacement of the sensor is unlikely to resolve the underlying problem. The fault is most likely to be caused by the systems that the sensor is monitoring, but might even be caused by the wiring to the sensor itself.

How to fix P2881 code ?

• Faulty Air Flow Meter
• Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
• Erratic camshaft position due to low oil pressure
• Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) position circuit is open or shorted

As long as the throttle plate remains closed, the idling speed and quality is controlled by the PCM via the idle control valve, and as can be seen from the above it should be clear that idle control on a gasoline engine is a complex affair.

For instance, if the engine is started in sub-zero temperatures, the PCM will command the idling control valve to allow less air to enter the engine to enrich the air/fuel mixture to create a condition which is roughly analogous to how chokes worked on carburetted engines to control idling in cold weather.