Catalytic converters must be warm before they can work properly. On a cold start the PCM provides a rich mixture to keep the cold engine running.
All that extra fuel goes into the catalytic converter. But the exhaust isn't very hot, because, ah, the engine is pretty cold. GM has employed several strategies to fire up the catalytic converter quicker and reduce cold start emissions. One way is to use a secondary air pump that pumps outside air directly into the catalytic converter.
As the engine heats up and combustion becomes easier and more complete, the PCM will command the idling control valve to increase the amount of air entering the engine to suit the changing conditions. However, when the load on the engine changes, say, when some electrical consumers or other systems are either turned on or off, the PCM adapts the signal voltage to the idle control valve to ensure that the idling speed remains stable, and at the RPM specified by the manufacturer.
If your vehicle failed a C0381 test and the C0381 Check Engine Light is NOT on, chances are you have a problem with the OBDII system, a burned out MIL lamp, or a faulty catalytic converter. The converter is essentially an afterburner that cleans up the exhaust after it exits the engine. The OBDII system uses turn signal / hazard switch signal circuit failure a ownstream oxygen sensor to monitor the efficiency of the converter, and it should detect a drop in converter efficiency if the converter has been contaminated or is failing (ignition misfiring, leaky exhaust valves, and oil burning can all damage the converter). What you want to look turn signal / hazard switch signal circuit failure: Any conditions that might cause ignition misfire, an overly rich or lean fuel condition, or loss of compression. Use your OBD Express DIY to look at the oxygen sensor outputs, coolant temperature, airflow, calculated engine load, and inlet air temperature.
Difficulty Level (Soso)
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Repair Time (30 Min.)
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| Cost Prediction : $ 70-220 |
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C0381 is a kind of Chassis Trouble Code
Diagnosing chassis noises can be one of the most frustrating problems technicians face. Fortunately, manufacturers have engineered noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) diagnostic techniques and equipment to find the source of the noise. |
You can view according C0381 DTC for your car model. We selected several models to see obd2 solutions click and view it.
Engine OBD 2 Codes website is a freeware resource center for engine trouble codes.
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