AutoCodes – Acura – P0842 Acura

P0842 Acura Code - Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch Circuit Low

Quick Answer

Transmission fluid pressure switch A (2nd clutch) is installed in the hydraulic pressure circuit to the 2nd clutch. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0842 Acura indicates Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 13,361

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 10, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0842 Acura Description

Transmission fluid pressure switch A (2nd clutch) is installed in the hydraulic pressure circuit to the 2nd clutch. When hydraulic pressure is supplied to the 2nd clutch, the switch is turned ON. When hydraulic pressure is not supplied to the 2nd clutch, the switch is turned OFF. The signal from transmission fluid pressure switch A (2nd clutch) is input to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM detects the hydraulic pressure supply conditions at the gear change to 2nd gear (1st to 2nd, 3rd to 2nd) to reduce the shock that occurs at the gear change. If transmission fluid pressure switch A (2nd clutch) is OFF while driving the vehicle with the rotation speed ratio of the input/output pulses is that of 2nd gear, the PCM detects a transmission fluid pressure switch A (2nd clutch) failure and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code P0842 Acura - Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0842 Acura Code - Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0842 Acura?

Low transmission fluid level
Dirty transmission fluid
Faulty Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch
Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch harness or connectors
Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 'A' 2nd Clutch circuit is open or shorted
Transmission internal mechanical problem

How to Fix the DTC P0842 Acura?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0842 Acura code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0842 Acura Code

1. What is OBDII code P0842 in an Acura?

Code P0842 indicates that the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'A' for the 2nd clutch in your Acura has reported a low voltage or pressure deviation from the expected value.

2. What are common symptoms of the P0842 code in an Acura?

Symptoms can include delayed or harsh shifting, the transmission slipping, the Check Engine Light turning on, and in some cases, the vehicle entering "limp" mode to prevent further damage.

3. What causes the P0842 code to appear in an Acura?

Possible causes include low transmission fluid levels, faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch, wiring issues (shorts or opens), or a problem with the transmission control module.

4. How do I fix the P0842 code in my Acura?

To fix this code, start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or dirty, it should be filled up or changed. If the fluid is in good condition, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and replace the transmission fluid pressure sensor if necessary.

5. Can I drive my Acura with the P0842 code?

While the vehicle might still be drivable, it is not recommended to continue driving with this code active as it can lead to further transmission damage. It is best to address the issue as soon as possible.

6. What tools are needed to diagnose the P0842 code on an Acura?

Diagnosing this code typically requires a scan tool to read the code and monitor transmission fluid pressure, a digital multimeter for electrical testing, and possibly a pressure gauge set for transmission diagnostics.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0842 code in an Acura?

The cost can vary significantly based on the cause. Sensor replacement might cost between $150 and $300, while more severe issues like wiring repairs or transmission damage can increase the cost substantially.

8. Is the P0842 code serious for the health of my Acura?

Yes, this code is serious as it relates to the transmission's operation, which is crucial for the drivability and safety of your vehicle. Ignoring it can lead to more significant transmission issues.

9. How often should the transmission fluid be checked to avoid issues like P0842?

It's good practice to check your transmission fluid every oil change, or at least twice a year. Regular checks can help catch issues like low fluid levels before they result in transmission damage and fault codes like P0842.

10. What is the role of the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch in an Acura?

The switch monitors the pressure of the transmission fluid to ensure it is at proper levels for optimal transmission performance. It sends this information to the transmission control module to help regulate shifting and operation efficiency.