AutoCodes – Subaru – P0801 Subaru

P0801 Subaru Code - Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

An ignition voltage is supplied to the Reverse Inhibit solenoid. Common causes include Faulty Reverse Inhibit Solenoid, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid 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: P0801 Subaru indicates Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Reverse Inhibit Solenoid, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 14,034

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 08, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0801 Subaru Description

An ignition voltage is supplied to the Reverse Inhibit solenoid. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the solenoid by grounding the control circuit via an internal switch called a driver. The driver supplies the ground for the component being controlled. Each driver has a fault line which the PCM monitors. When the PCM commands a component ON, the voltage of the control circuit should be low (near 0 volts). When the PCM commands the control circuit to a component OFF, the voltage potential of the circuit should be high (near battery voltage). If the fault detection circuit senses a voltage other than what is expected, the fault line status changes causing the P0801 code to set.

OBDII Code P0801 Subaru - Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0801 Subaru Code - Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0801 Subaru?

Faulty Reverse Inhibit Solenoid
Reverse Inhibit Solenoid harness is open or shorted
Reverse Inhibit Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0801 Subaru?

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 P0801 Subaru 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.

Need more information about the P0801 Subaru code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0801 Subaru code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0801 Subaru code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P0801 Subaru Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0801 in a Subaru related to the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction?

- Common symptoms can include difficulty shifting into reverse, the inability to engage reverse gear, or the reverse lights not functioning properly.

2. What are the potential causes of the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction (P0801) in a Subaru?

- Possible causes can include a faulty reverse inhibit control solenoid, damaged wiring in the circuit, or a malfunctioning transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0801 in my Subaru for the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the trouble code, inspecting the reverse inhibit control circuit for any visible damage, and testing the related components for proper function.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Subaru with the P0801 code for the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to further transmission issues and safety concerns related to the reverse gear functionality.

5. Can I repair the P0801 code in my Subaru related to the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction myself?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may attempt the repair, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic with experience in diagnosing and repairing transmission-related issues to ensure proper resolution.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction in a Subaru triggering the P0801 code?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it may range from $200 to $500 or more, including parts and labor.

7. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid triggering the P0801 code in a Subaru?

- Regularly inspecting and maintaining the transmission system, addressing any unusual shifting issues promptly, and following the manufacturer's recommended service intervals can help prevent such malfunctions.

8. Can a dead battery or electrical issues trigger the P0801 code in a Subaru?

- Yes, a weak battery or electrical problems can potentially affect the proper functioning of the reverse inhibit control circuit and lead to the P0801 trouble code.

9. Will resetting the OBDII system clear the P0801 code related to the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction in a Subaru?

- Resetting the system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing the malfunction is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear after driving the vehicle.

10. How long does it take to repair the Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction in a Subaru causing the P0801 code?

- The repair time can vary based on the diagnosis and the extent of the issue, but it may take a few hours to a full day for a professional mechanic to complete the repair.