P0877 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "D" Circuit Low Trouble Code

P0877 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor / Switch D Circuit Low

OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor / Switch D Circuit Low

What does that mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic trouble code typically applies to all OBD-II equipped engines, but shows up more often in certain Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep, General Motors and Toyota vehicles.

The Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch (TFPS) is usually found attached to the side of the valve body inside the transmission, although sometimes it may be found screwed into the side of the transmission case/body itself.

 

The TFPS converts the mechanical transmission pressures into an electrical signal for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM). Typically, the PCM/TCM will then inform other controllers utilizing the vehicle's data communication bus.

The PCM/TCM receives this voltage signal to determine transmission operating pressure or when a shift is occurring. This code is set if this input does not match normal operating voltages stored in the PCM/TCM's memory. It may also be due to internal mechanical issues inside the transmission.

P0877 is typically an electrical circuit (TFPS sensor circuit) issue. This cannot be overlooked in the troubleshooting stage, especially when dealing with an intermittent problem.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending upon manufacturer, type of TFPS sensor and wire colors.

Related trans fluid pressure sensor D codes:

P0875 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "D" Circuit P0876 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "D" Circuit Range/Performance P0878 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "D" Circuit High P0879 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "D" Circuit Intermittent

Code Severity & Symptoms

Severity depends upon which circuit the failure has occurred in. Since this is an electrical failure, the PCM/TCM can compensate to some degree. The failure may mean that the PCM/TCM modifies the shifting of the transmission if electronically controlled.

Symptoms of a P0877 engine code may include:

Malfunction Indicator Light On Change in shift quality Vehicle starts off in 2nd or 3rd gear (limp in mode)

Causes

Typically the causes for this code to set are:

Short to ground in the signal circuit to the TFPS sensor - possible Failed TFPS Sensor / internally shorted – likely Failed PCM - unlikely (programming required after replacement)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your issue may be a known issue with a known fix put out by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.

Next, locate the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch (TFPS) on your particular vehicle. The TFPS is usually found attached to the side of the valve body inside the transmission, although sometimes it may be found screwed into the side of the transmission case/body itself. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots or melted plastic. Pull the connector apart and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. See if they look burned or have a green tint indicating corrosion, especially if they are attached outside the transmission case. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning of the terminals is needed. Let dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals contact.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory, and see if P0877 code returns. If it does not, then the connections were most likely your problem.

This is the most common area of concern for this code, as the external transmission connect

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