VOLVO
ECM-981A - Torque. Too high torque
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
This fault code has different meanings depending on model, model year or engine. Select the meaning that applies to your car.
Applies to the following models:
9 modelsC70 Cabriolet (1998–2005), C70 Coupé (1998–2002), S60 (2001–2009), S70 (1997–2000), S80 (1999–2006), V70 (1997–2000), V70 (2000–2008), V70 XC (1998–2000), V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)
Show models by year and engine (16)
- Volvo C70 Cabriolet (1998–2005)1999, 2001–2002
- Volvo C70 Cabriolet (1998–2005)2000All engines except: B5244S
- Volvo C70 Coupé (1998–2002)1999All engines except: B5254S DENSO
- Volvo C70 Coupé (1998–2002)2000All engines except: B5244S
- Volvo C70 Coupé (1998–2002)2001–2002
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2001All engines except: B5244S, B5244S2, D5244T
- Volvo S70 (1997–2000)1999Engine B5204T3, B5204T4, B5234T3, B5234T7, B5254T only
- Volvo S70 (1997–2000)2000Engine B5204T3, B5204T4, B5234T3, B5234T7, B5244T only
- Volvo S80 (1999–2006)1999–2000All engines except: B5244S, B5244S2, D5252T MSA 15.8
- Volvo S80 (1999–2006)2001Engine B5204T5, B5234T7, B5244T3, B6284T, B6294S only
- Volvo V70 (1997–2000)1999Engine B5204T3, B5204T4, B5234T3, B5234T7, B5234T8, B5254T only
- Volvo V70 (1997–2000)2000All engines except: B5244S, B5244S2, B5244SG, B5244SG2, D5252T MSA 15.8
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2000All engines except: D5252T MSA 15.8
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2001Engine B5204T5, B5234T3, B5234T7, B5244T3 only
- Volvo V70 XC (1998–2000)1999–2000
- Volvo V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)2001
What does this fault code mean?
The engine control module (ECM) continuously checks that engine torque does not become too high. It calculates a maximum permitted torque from pedal angle and engine speed and compares it with the actual torque. If the actual torque exceeds the limit for a short moment, the code is stored.
Possible causes
- Object blocking the throttle plate, such as an oil film or dust
- The engine control module does not have the latest software
- Defective air mass meter
- Defective accelerator pedal position sensor
- Defective engine control module
What you can do
- 1Read the other fault codes first. If this code is a follow-on fault, fix the root fault first, and then the code can be cleared
- 2The counters show whether the fault has occurred often recently, which makes it easier to reproduce during troubleshooting. Freeze-frame values show when it happened
- 3Look for air leaks in the intake and for loose charge air pipes
- 4Check that the throttle moves freely and that the throttle plate is not blocked by an oil film or dust
- 5Check the hoses between the turbo control valve and the intake pipe for breaks and blockages. A workshop should check the wastegate or turbo control valve if damaged
- 6After repair: clear the code, leave the ignition off for a while before test driving so the throttle module resets. A workshop loads new software
Symptoms you may notice5
- Pedal input is ignored when braking
- Cruise control cannot be engaged
- Uneven idle
- Engine jerks during engine braking
- ETS warning lamp lit
What the fault can affect3
- The throttle closes when braking, and the pedal position is disregarded while the brake pedal is pressed
- Cruise control is switched off for the driving cycle in which the fault was detected
- Engine speed is limited by fuel cut-off
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.