P1281 BUICK, CADILLAC, CHEVROLET, GMC: ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR 2 PERFORMANCE
POST UPDATED IN May, 2023
P1281 Code failures by brands
Description of DTC code P1281
Nowadays, modern vehicles have an electrical system that controls the accelerator, which includes the APP or better known as Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor. Its main function is to monitor the position of the accelerator pedal. Consequently, it sends a voltage signal that allows the throttle body to open while the pedal is depressed.
The APP sensor, which is installed inside the Throttle Control Module (TAC) assembly, basically tells the engine how fast should drive while the accelerator pedal is depressed. When the pedal is depressed or released, an electrical signal is sent to the Engine Control Module or ECM. Then, that signal is sent to the fuel system. There are three individual APP sensors inside the TAC Module. Three separate signal circuits, low reference circuits, and 5-volt reference circuits determine the throttle position. As the accelerator pedal is depressed, the APP Sensor signal voltages increase.
The OBDII fault code P1281 is a specific code, which for Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC manufacturers are used to indicate that the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor 2 has experienced performance problems.
Symptoms of fault code P1281
- Check Engine light ON.
- Reduced driver throttle control capability.
- Lower fuel efficiency.
Causes of OBD2 P1281
Reasons to set the P1281 OBD2 diagnostic code:
- The electrical connections of the APP 2 Sensor circuit may be damaged due to bad wiring or connectors.
- The Throttle Pedal Position Sensor 2 circuit may be in short.
- Maybe the APP Sensor is
Possible solutions of the DTC code P1281
To troubleshoot the DTC P1281 OBDII code, try this:
- Consult the Technical Service Bulletins.
- Inspect all the wiring associated with the APP 2 Sensor for common damage. Repair or replace if necessary.
- Check that the reference voltage and signal voltage of the Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor 2 are indicated by the manufacturer in its specifications. If you find out-of-range voltage, make corrections.
- Check the integrity of the APP Sensor. If you determine that the APP sensor is faulty, replace it.
