P081F code meaning
Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) Signal Correlation
What P081F means
The brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) is a solenoid or actuator that locks the selector in park until the brake pedal is pressed, as US rule FMVSS 114 requires. 'Signal correlation' is the plausibility check between the interlock command or feedback and its input signals – brake switch and selector position: for example the lock released without a brake signal, or still active although the brake is pressed. The selector then cannot leave park, or it moves without the brake and the safety function is missing. Electrical faults of the lock solenoid have their own codes P0928–P0931. No manufacturer document with P081F is available to us; a GM service update for the 2016 Malibu and 2016–17 Volt explains the part and the 'won't shift out of park' complaint. CARB may exempt such safety parts from monitoring.
P081F at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P081F
- Selector cannot be moved out of P
- Selector moves out of P without the brake
- Warning about brake or range
Common causes of P081F
- Most likelyBrake lamp switch misadjusted or faulty
- PossibleInterlock solenoid or locking mechanism sticking
- PossibleWire or connector to the selector
- Less likelySelector module, control unit or software
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Shift interlock solenoidBrake switchGear selector
What each part of P081F means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 8 | Area: transmission. |
| 1F | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P081F and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P081F
What does P081F mean?
P081F means "Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) Signal Correlation". The brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) is a solenoid or actuator that locks the selector in park until the brake pedal is pressed, as US rule FMVSS 114 requires. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P081F?
P081F does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P081F fail an emissions test?
P081F is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P081F to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P081F clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.