P0802 Transmission Control System MIL Request Circuit/Open Trouble Code

P0802 Transmission Control System MIL Request Circuit/Open Trouble Code

P0802 Transmission Control System MIL Request Circuit/Open

OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Transmission Control System MIL Request Circuit/Open

What does that mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Chevrolet, Kia, GMC, Dodge, Ford, Ram, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.


 

If your vehicle has stored a code P0802, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has received a data input signal indicating that the transmission control system (TCS) has detected a malfunction which requires malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination.

The transmission control module (TCM) may be stand alone unit but is most commonly integrated into a single housing with the engine control module (ECM). This is what is referred to as the PCM.

The PCM utilizes input signals from multiple engine and transmission sensors to calculate automatic transmission shift strategy. A high pressure pump (inside the transmission) forces fluid through the valve body and into the sprag assembly; in addition to lubricating and cooling the transmission. The high pressure fluid allows the clutches to separate from the sprag momentarily so that the gear ratio may be changed smoothly. One or more electronic pressure control (EPC) solenoids help to regulate fluid pressure. Electronic pressure (EP) sensors provide the PCM with pertinent data regarding fluid pressure at various points in the transmission. Electronic shift solenoids are used to interrupt the flow of high pressure fluid so that the transmission shifts gears when commanded. The PCM uses voltage input signals from the transmission input speed sensor and transmission output speed sensor to determine if the transmission is shifting efficiently.

As with many other automatic transmission malfunctions, a transmission control system code may be caused by either an electrical or mechanical failure. If the PCM detects a malfunction which demands MIL illumination, a code P0802 will be stored and a MIL illuminated

A typical transmission control module:

What is the severity of this DTC?

A stored code P0802 indicates that a potentially serious TCS malfunction has been detected. Conditions which contributed to a code of this nature being stored should be rectified as quickly as possible.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0802 trouble code may include:

Erratic or harsh shifting Delayed or no gear engagement The transmission may be placed in limp-in mode

What are some of the common causes of the code?

Causes for this code may include:

Defective TCM or PCM Shorted or open transmission control circuits Controller programming error

What are some P0802 troubleshooting steps?

When diagnosing automatic transmission codes, you should begin by making sure that the transmission fluid is clean and that the transmission if filled to the appropriate level. If the fluid level is low, locate the source of the leak and repair the condition. Refill the transmission with the recommended fluid and proceed.

If the fluid is excessively dark and smells strongly of burnt friction material, it will need to be replaced. This can be accomplished by removing the transmission pan (and draining the torque converter) or flushing the transmission (recommended). Either way, you will want to replace the filter at this time too. When removing the pan from the transmission, take care to preserve whatever debris may have landed therein. If the pan is relatively clear of debris you can assume that the clutches are mechanically intact. If there is an excessive amount of friction material in the pan (and stuck to the magnet), the transmission will requi

Read: 29