AutoCodes – Saturn – P0872 Saturn

P0872 Saturn Code - Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The 4th clutch pressure switch is located in the hydraulic passage to the 4th clutch. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C', Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' harness is open or shorted, Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' 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: P0872 Saturn indicates Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C', Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' harness is open or shorted, Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' 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 1,169

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 Dec 18, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0872 Saturn Description

The 4th clutch pressure switch is located in the hydraulic passage to the 4th clutch. When oil pressure is supplied to the 4th clutch, the switch is grounded, LOW. When oil pressure is not supplied, the switch is open, HI. The PCM receives the signal from the 4th clutch pressure switch to detect the fluid pressure status, in order to reduce the shift shock when shifting into 4th gear, from 3rd to 4th or 5th to 4th. If the 4th clutch pressure switch is ON when the gear ratio is not 4th gear, the PCM determines it is a fault and Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0872 sets. DTC P0872 is a type C DTC. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set if the 4th clutch pressure switch is OFF when the transmission is in 5th gear for 2 seconds or greater.

OBDII Code P0872 Saturn - Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0872 Saturn Code - Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0872 Saturn?

Faulty Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C'
Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' harness is open or shorted
Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P0872 Saturn?

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 P0872 Saturn 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 P0872 Saturn code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0872 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0872 Saturn Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn related to the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit Low?

Common symptoms can include harsh shifting, transmission slipping, poor acceleration, and illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What are the typical causes of OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn?

The code P0872 usually indicates a fault with the transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch 'C', which can be caused by issues such as a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or low transmission fluid levels.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0872 in my Saturn?

To diagnose the code P0872, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, inspect the wiring and connections related to the transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch 'C', and check the transmission fluid level and condition.

4. Can I continue driving my Saturn with OBDII code P0872 present?

It is not recommended to continue driving your Saturn with the code P0872 present, as it can lead to further damage to the transmission and potentially result in costly repairs.

5. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn?

Repair tips may include checking and replacing the transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch 'C', repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring the transmission fluid is at the correct level, and clearing the trouble code with an OBDII scanner after the repairs are completed.

6. Is it necessary to visit a mechanic for OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn?

While some DIY enthusiasts may attempt to diagnose and repair the issue themselves, it is recommended to consult a qualified mechanic, especially for complex transmission-related problems like code P0872.

7. What are the potential risks of ignoring OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn?

Ignoring the code P0872 can lead to more severe transmission issues, such as gear slippage, transmission failure, and unsafe driving conditions. It is essential to address the problem promptly.

8. Can a low transmission fluid level cause OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn?

Yes, a low transmission fluid level can cause the code P0872 to trigger, as the transmission fluid plays a crucial role in maintaining proper pressure and lubrication within the transmission system.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn?

Regular maintenance, such as checking and changing the transmission fluid at recommended intervals, inspecting the transmission system for leaks, and addressing any issues promptly, can help prevent the occurrence of code P0872.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0872 in a Saturn?

The repair time for code P0872 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair. It may take a few hours to a full day for the repairs to be completed by a qualified mechanic.