Code P1281

Tiny
LEONADA
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 JEEP LIBERTY
  • 4 CYL
  • 4WD
  • MANUAL
  • 88,000 MILES
My engine fails to warm up to operating range and is cold too long (code P1281). The probable causes were addressed and fixed (filled coolant, replaced thermostat). Since the engine light is still on, what are some other possible causes for this code?
Sunday, March 28th, 2010 AT 6:48 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
BMRFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 19,053 POSTS
Engine coolant temperature is monitored with engine running. DTC will set if the engine coolant temperature does not reach 181 °F (83 °C) while driving for more than 3 minutes and less than one hour depending on the engine load and start up temperature. Possible Causes Engine Cold Too Long Testing NOTE:The best way to diagnose this DTC is to allow the vehicle to remain outside overnight in order to have a completely cold soaked engine. Extremely cold outside ambient temperatures may cause this DTC to set. Verify that the coolant level is not low and correct as necessary. Start the engine. With the DRBIII(R), set the engine RPM to 1500 and allow the engine to warm up for 10-15 minutes. With the DRBIII(R), monitor the ENG COOLANT TMP DEG value during the warm up cycle. Make sure the transition of temperature change is smooth. Did the engine temperature reach a minimum of 176 °F (80 °C)? If yes, test is complete. If no, check thermostat and cooling system for probable causes.
If it passes the above diagnostic, you may have a coolant sensor that is out of range.
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Sunday, March 28th, 2010 AT 7:29 PM

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