What Does P2481 Mean?
The voltage signal from exhaust gas temperature sensor 5 on bank 1 is below the minimum acceptable threshold. This indicates the sensor is reporting temperatures that are implausibly low or the circuit voltage is shorted to ground. The PCM interprets this as a circuit malfunction rather than an actual low temperature.
Common Causes
40%
Short to ground in sensor wiring harness
30%
Failed EGT sensor with internal short circuit
20%
Moisture or contamination in sensor connector causing short
10%
Damaged sensor from impact or over-torque during installation
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Monitor live data for sensor 5 voltage; should read near 0V if shorted to ground
2
Step 2: Disconnect sensor and check if voltage at harness connector rises to reference voltage (typically 5V)
3
Step 3: Inspect wiring harness routing for contact with hot exhaust components or sharp edges causing shorts
4
Step 4: Measure sensor resistance; very low resistance (near 0 ohms) indicates internal short
5
Step 5: Check for moisture in connector and verify proper sealing to prevent contamination
Estimated Repair Cost
$160 - $580
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The voltage signal from exhaust gas temperature sensor 5 on bank 1 is below the minimum acceptable threshold. This indicates the sensor is reporting temperatures that are implausibly low or the circuit voltage is shorted to ground. The PCM interprets this as a circuit malfunction rather than an actu...
The most common cause of P2481 (Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 5) is: Short to ground in sensor wiring harness
Typical repair costs for P2481 range from $160 to $580, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive temporarily, but may affect DPF regeneration and emissions control. Could lead to limp mode activation if other exhaust sensors also fail.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P2481 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Emissions Control System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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