VOLVO
TCM-981A - Torque. Too high torque
System
Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
5 modelsC70 Cabriolet (1998–2005), C70 Coupé (1998–2002), S70 (1997–2000), V70 (1997–2000), V70 XC (1998–2000)
Show models by year and engine (10)
- 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 S70 (1997–2000)1999Engine B5204T3, B5204T4, B5234T3, B5234T7, B5254T only
- Volvo S70 (1997–2000)2000Engine B5204T3, B5204T4, B5234T3, B5234T7, B5244T 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 XC (1998–2000)1999–2000
What does this fault code mean?
The engine control module makes sure the engine torque stays within its limit. It calculates a maximum allowed torque from the accelerator pedal angle and engine speed, and compares it with the current torque, which is based on, among other things, measured air mass. The fault code is set when the torque exceeds the allowed value for a short time. It may be stored alone or as a follow-on fault to another code.
Possible causes
- Something blocks the throttle or its position sensor, such as an oil film or dust
- The engine control module software is not the latest version
- Defective mass air flow sensor
- Defective accelerator pedal sensor
- Defective engine control module
What you can do
- 1Read the fault codes. Fix any other fault codes first, since this code may be a follow-on fault
- 2Look for leaks and loose charge-air pipes in the intake system, and check the hoses between the turbo control valve and the intake manifold for cracks and blockages
- 3Have a workshop check the wastegate valve, turbo control valve, accelerator pedal sensor and mass air flow sensor with diagnostic equipment
- 4After a repair: switch the ignition off and wait a while. Switch it on and off again, then wait a bit longer. If the cooling fan has run, wait until it stops
Symptoms you may notice5
- The accelerator pedal is ignored when braking
- The cruise control cannot be activated
- Uneven idle
- Jerks during engine braking
- ETS warning lamp lit
What the fault can affect3
- The throttle closes during braking, and the accelerator pedal position is ignored while the brake pedal is pressed
- Cruise control is switched off for the rest of the operating cycle in which the fault was detected
- Engine speed is controlled by cutting fuel to one cylinder at a time, which can make the idle uneven
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.