P1381 on Acura
Variable Cam Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
P1381 on Acura vehicles indicates variable cam timing over-advanced (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 1 Acura model — most commonly on Integra. This manufacturer-specific code (most common on Ford/Lincoln/Mazda) means the engine computer detected that the Variable Cam Timing (VCT) on cylinder bank 1 has advanced beyond the allowed range, often alongside a detected misfire. Variable cam timing adjusts when the valves open and close to optimize power, economy, and emissions, and it relies on clean engine oil and a working solenoid. When timing drifts too far advanced, the engine can run rough and lose power. It is usually an oil-flow or solenoid issue rather than a sign the engine is destroyed. Typical repair costs on Acura range from $250 to $600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P1381
- •Dirty or low engine oil restricting the VCT solenoid
- •Faulty or stuck variable cam timing (VCT) solenoid
- •Worn or stretched timing chain / guides
- •Faulty camshaft position sensor
- •Low engine oil pressure
- •Clogged oil passages or VCT actuator (phaser)
- •Wiring or connector fault at the VCT solenoid
P1381 on Acura by Model
Acura Integra(1 issue)
- Internal distributor failure causing stalling, no-start, and misfires1994-1999
The TEC/Hitachi internal-coil distributor on third-generation Integras is a chronic failure point. Heat from the internal ignition coil degrades the coil, igniter (ICM), and bearings, causing intermittent stalling at operating temperature, hot-restart problems, and dead no-starts. The 1996 Acura Integra has the most overall complaints, with the most-reported problem being distributor failure. This issue can cause difficulty starting the car, stalling, and misfiring. The car has been in the shop because the driver was driving and it just shut off with no warning or light. Come to find out it was the distributor so they changed it.
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View P1381 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P1381 mean on Acura?▼
P1381 stands for "Variable Cam Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1)." This manufacturer-specific code (most common on Ford/Lincoln/Mazda) means the engine computer detected that the Variable Cam Timing (VCT) on cylinder bank 1 has advanced beyond the allowed range, often alongside a detected misfire. Variable cam timing adjusts when the valves open and close to optimize power, economy, and emissions, and it relies on clean engine oil and a working solenoid. When timing drifts too far advanced, the engine can run rough and lose power. It is usually an oil-flow or solenoid issue rather than a sign the engine is destroyed. On Acura specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P1381 on Acura vehicles?▼
Common causes on Acura: Dirty or low engine oil restricting the VCT solenoid, Faulty or stuck variable cam timing (VCT) solenoid, Worn or stretched timing chain / guides, Faulty camshaft position sensor, Low engine oil pressure. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P1381 on a Acura?▼
Repair costs on Acura range from $250 to $600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Acura models have P1381 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P1381 on 1 Acura model: Integra.