GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

System Description

The engine control module (ECM) detects engine misfire events by monitoring variations in the crankshaft rotation speed. Wheel speed changes caused by rough road conditions can cause changes in crankshaft speed. By monitoring the wheel speed sensors, the anti-lock brake system (ABS) can determine if the vehicle is operating on a rough road. If the ABS is detecting a rough road condition severe enough to affect misfire detection, a rough road signal is sent to the ECM on the serial data circuit. If DTC P0300 is set and the rough road information is not available due to an ABS malfunction, DTC P1381 sets.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC P1381 Misfire Detected - No Communication With Brake Control Module

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The engine is operating for more than 10 seconds.
    • DTC P1381 runs continuously once the above condition is met.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • A serial data malfunction exists preventing the ECM from receiving rough road detection data.
    • The above condition is met for 2 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The control module illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on the third consecutive ignition cycle that the diagnostic runs and fails.
    • The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The first time the diagnostic fails, the control module stores this information in the Failure Records. If the diagnostic reports a failure on the second consecutive ignition cycle, the control module records the operating conditions at the time of the failure. The control module writes the operating conditions to the Freeze Frame and updates the Failure Records.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

    • The control module turns OFF the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after 4 consecutive ignition cycles that the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
    • A current DTC, Last Test Failed, clears when the diagnostic runs and passes.
    • A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other emission related diagnostic.
    • Clear the MIL and the DTC with a scan tool.

Test Description

The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.

  1. This step will diagnose a malfunction in the serial data circuits.

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls?

Go to Diagnostic System Check - ABS in Antilock Brake System

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls