B1251 BMW Fault Code

Description:

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Circuit High Input Indicates the sensor signal is greater than Self-Test maximum. The ECT sensor maximum is 4.6 volts or -50 C (-58 F). Note on some vehicles that are not equipped with an ECT sensor, CHT can be used and can set this DTC. Open circuit in harness Sensor signal short to power Damaged PCM Improper harness connection Damaged sensor ECT V PID reading greater than 4.6 volts with key ON and engine OFF or during any engine operating mode indicates a hard fault.

B1251 Code Symptoms :

The original multi-displacement system turned off opposite pairs of cylinders, allowing the engine to have three different configurations and displacements. B1251 code had an elaborate diagnostics procedure, including showing engine trouble codes on the air conditionning display. However, the system was troublesome, misunderstood by customers, and a rash of unpredictable failures led to the technology being quickly retired.

Diagnosis And Repairing B1251

B1251 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 B1251 code ?

• Camshaft advance mechanism binding (VCT unit)
• Faulty Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve
• Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
• Ignition coils circuit poor electrical connection

One example of this would be when an bmw automatic car in placed in gear. To prevent the added drag from the torque converter and transmission from reducing the idling speed, the PCM will command the idle control valve to allow more air to enter the engine, while at the same time, adjusting the injector pulse width to inject more fuel to suit the increased amount of air. Note that the idle air control valve is closed by the PCM when the throttle plate is opened to prevent excess air from entering the engine.