AutoCodes – Generic – P0791

P0791 Code - Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor 'A' Circuit

Quick Answer

This sensor detects the rotation speed of the counter gear which indicates the output speed of the transaxle. Common causes include Faulty Speed sensor NC (Transmission Revolution Sensor), Speed sensor NC harness is open or shorted, Speed sensor NC circuit poor electrical connection. 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
P0791 indicates Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor 'A' Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Speed sensor NC (Transmission Revolution Sensor), Speed sensor NC harness is open or shorted, Speed sensor NC circuit poor electrical connection.
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 22,558
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 12, 2022
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Code P0791 Description

This sensor detects the rotation speed of the counter gear which indicates the output speed of the transaxle. By comparing the input turbine speed (speed sensor NT) signal with the counter gear speed (speed sensor NC) signal, the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects the shift timing of the gears and appropriately controls the engine torque and hydraulic pressure according to various conditions. As a result, the gears shift smoothly.
The NT terminal of the ECM detects a pulse signal from the speed sensor NT (input RPM). The ECM calculates gear shifts by comparing the signal from speed sensor NT with the signal from speed sensor NC.
While the vehicle is operating in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th gear with the shift lever in D, if the input shaft speed is less than 300 rpm although the output shaft speed is more than 1000 rpm, the ECM interprets this as a fault, illuminates the MIL and stores the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). P0791 code is detected when the input speed sensor voltage is more than 1.9V or less than 0.1V for 2 seconds or more.
OBDII Code P0791 - Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor 'A' Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P0791 Code - Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor 'A' Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0791?

  • Faulty Speed sensor NC (Transmission Revolution Sensor)
  • Speed sensor NC harness is open or shorted
  • Speed sensor NC circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0791?

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 P0791 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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Information for Specific Makes

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 P0791 Code

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