Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Zetec Maintenance Have you beat the P1381 code

I would like to hear from people that have had the P1381 code and what you had to do to get rid of it. I know what the code means. Tell me what you did to get rid of it.

I don't even want to think about it, I have VCT

Well I'm sure you let the VCT cam gear free wheel on the shaft when doing the timing... And I'm sure you've been threw all the testing that one can do them self on the VCT.. I hate to say it could be looking at the unit it's self but a $$$ part and a nother timing job + the replacement of VCT... You might have to take it to have it checked for sure on what it is, if they are a nice shop, they will understand that you wish to do the work yourself but need to be 100% on what it is.

P1381 Cam Timing Advance is excessive.

Something is off on one of your camshafts... what year and how many miles... Which engine, im going to assume the Zetec.

VCT Solenoid is bad.

I know what the code is. There are a bunch of reasons why you can get that code. Contaminated oil, timing off, low oil pressure, bad VCT solenoid. I think most people just live with the CEL light on because the VCT solenoid costs so much. I just wanted to hear from some people who got the code and if they got it fixed, what was done to fix it.

I got the code.

Replaced the solenoid.

No code.

I read your posts on replacing that solenoid. It was as simple (or cheap) as your short post would seem it to be was it? Or have I just not had any coffee this moring?

Just think timing belt change.

Anybody know where I can get a good VCT solenoid cheap? Anybody know the ford part number?

My daughter's zetec had that code.
We checked the VCT solenoid and it was fine. She needed a new timing belt/tensioner. After paying lots of money, she wasn't at home for us to fix it, there was no more CEL.