Diagnostics Trouble Code P1371: An In-depth Analysis

What does it mean when the car computer registers error code P1371? If the check engine light is illuminated on the dashboard and you see this light, you don’t have to worry.

This article will explain the meaning, possible causes, corresponding symptoms, severity, repair cost, and common mistakes associated with the Suzuki P1371 trouble code and other car models. I’ll also walk you through how to diagnose and address the issue.

What does error code P1371 mean?

The P1371 is a vehicle-specific trouble code that shows the powertrain control module has detected a missing low-resolution signal. The car computer consistently monitors the ignition system and the entire powertrain, ensuring its signals fall within the manufacturer’s specifications.

If the powertrain control module (PCM) detects a missing low-resolution signal, it’ll log the P1371 on Chevy Camaro or your respective car model. Depending on the specific vehicle, the car computer may trigger the check engine light on the dashboard.

What is the symptom of error code P1371?

As I explained above, P1371 is not a generic trouble code. It is a vehicle-specific code, meaning it does not appear on all vehicle makes and models. It can also pose several symptoms when the car computer logs it. However, I’ll outline the most prominent symptoms you can find.

Engine misfiring

A P1371 trouble diagnostic code can cause engine misfires since the PCM detects high-resolution pulses before detecting a missing low-resolution signal, causing irregular fuel injection and spark timing.

High gas consumption

A P1371 Porche code can make the vehicle consume more fuel than usual. Though, you may not easily notice the increase in fuel consumption. Of course, you will notice it if you pay attention to details.

Aside from a P1371 error code issue, factors like bad oxygen sensors, driving habits, lousy spark plugs, etc., can cause your vehicle to consume more gas than usual. Therefore, do not point accusing fingers at any component because of bad gas mileage until you diagnose the car.

The engine won’t accelerate or stalls

A missing low-resolution signal may cause the engine control module to fail to adjust fuel injection and spark timing as needed. If this occurs, the vehicle won’t accelerate as it should, and the engine speed will fluctuate as you drive.

The check engine light will illuminate the dashboard

While the check engine light is a prominent sign of a GM DTC P1371, it may not come on immediately. So, you should always pay attention to other symptoms listed above.

However, several factors can cause the check engine light to display on the dashboard. The engine control module triggers the check engine light whenever it detects a malfunction on the powertrain. Therefore, it is important to diagnose the vehicle with a scan tool whenever the engine warning light appears on the dashboard.

What Causes error code P1371

Here are the possible causes of a P1371 code you should watch out for;

How serious error code P1371 is?

A P1371 LT1 or on any good engine is a moderate case. This error code is not popular because it is a manufacturer-specific code. However, it can lead to significant issues in the long run.

For instance, if the engine control module triggers the check engine light because of a P1371 error code, you won’t know when the car computer triggers the check engine light again due to a more severe issue.

Common P1371 diagnosis mistakes

One of the most common mistakes mechanics and DIYers make when diagnosing a P1371 error code is replacing the crankshaft sensor without confirming if it is the root cause of the problem. A loose or disconnected crankshaft sensor could be the cause.

Another notable mistake is replacing the ignition control module without adequately inspecting it. It could be the connectors are rusted, or there’s an open or shorted wire.

How to diagnose

A few powertrain issues can cause the engine control module to log diagnostic trouble code P1371. You need to follow an excellent guide if you want to diagnose and address the problem yourself without wrongly throwing money at parts. Here’s the guide to walk you through the diagnosis and repair procedure.

Tools and Items Needed

Step 1: Diagnose the vehicle

Locate the vehicle’s onboard diagnosing port underneath the steering wheel and connect the OBD-II scan tool. Check if there are other logged error codes. If there are any, fix them before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Check the crankshaft sensor

Locate the crankshaft position sensor in your vehicle. The position varies from vehicle to vehicle. Check the connectors for bent, corroded, or rusted connectors. Inspect the wires for open, shorted, burnt, damaged, or defective wires. Replace any damaged parts accordingly. Test the crankshaft sensor and ensure it is functioning correctly. If not, replace it with a new one.

Step 3: Check the ignition control module

The location of the ICM varies from vehicle to vehicle. Your vehicle service manual will be handy in helping you locate the ignition control module. In a domestic model, the ignition control module sits on, inside, or near the distributor housing. Newer vehicle models will have the ignition control module on the firewall or wheel wall.

Carefully remove the ICM and visually inspect it for damages like bent, corroded, or rusted electrical connectors. Also, check the metal surfaces for any damages. Replace the component if you detect any cracks or damages. After the repair, erase the logged trouble code with your vehicle scan tool before hitting the road.

Step 4: Contact your mechanic

If you followed the above instructions and couldn’t rectify the problem, the only solution could be to visit your dealership or local mechanic. They will run a thorough diagnosis and address the underlying issue.

How do you fix P1371?

Since there are a few possible causes of a Porche fault code P1371, there are a few ways to address it. One or more of the following is needed to resolve a P1371 issue.

Approx. Repair Cost

It may be impossible to accurately estimate the repair cost of error code P1371 because there is more than one possible cause.

If you want to take the vehicle to a repair shop, the technicians will charge you for an hour of diagnostics. Most repair shops charge between $70 and $150 per hour. After the diagnosis, the technician can accurately estimate the repair cost.

In some cases, the mechanic will resolve the issue during diagnostics. It could be you had loose or corroded connectors. The P1371 repair requires one of the following.

Final Words

The general description of error code P1371 is missing a low-resolution signal. Some manufacturers may have a different description of the code. Regardless of the descriptions by car manufacturers, this article has outlined the possible causes, symptoms, and diagnosing procedures.

If you have been reading to this point, you can diagnose and address error code P1371 on any vehicle model. However, you will need the vehicle-specific service manual and an OBD-II scan tool before you can properly diagnose the problem.