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U1281 BMW Fault Code

Check U1281 OBD Fault Code Reason
Description:

Output Shaft Speed sensor circuit intermittent failure The output shaft speed sensor signal to the PCM is irregular or interrupted.
Harness connector not properly seated Harness intermittently shorted, or open Harness connector damaged OSS sensor damaged, or not installed properly Verify harness and connector integrity Verify OSS sensor proper installation.

U1281 Code Symptoms :

See U1281 in engine

When you turn on the ignition, the Service Engine Soon or Check Engine U1281 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 U1281!

Diagnosis And Repairing U1281

U1281 OBD2 specifically refers to the camshaft (cam) timing. In this case, if the cam timing is over-retarded, the engine light will be illluminated and the code will be set.

How to fix U1281 code ?

See U1281 repair manual
  • EVAP system hose leaking
  • Damaged VCT phaser
  • EVAP system hose leaking
  • EVAP canister or fuel tank leaks

Gear changes are accomplished by a command from the BMW TCM to energize the clutch actuator to release the clutch; after which various actuators inside the transmission disengage the current gear, and depending on current operating conditions, engage the next higher or lower gear ratio. All of this happens much faster than a human driver could change gears, and in most applications, gear changes are as smooth and seamless as on any fully automatic transmission.

BMW Cars that meet U1281 error