P0873 Code - Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit High
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
- P0873 indicates Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit High.
- 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.
Code P0873 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0873?
- 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 P0873?
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 P0873 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
- P0873 Acura — 4th Clutch Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch Short Or Stuck OFF
- P0873 Buick — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 3 Circuit High Voltage
- P0873 Cadillac — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 3 Circuit High Voltage
- P0873 Chevrolet — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 3 Circuit High Voltage
- P0873 Dodge — Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit High
- P0873 GMC — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 3 Circuit High Voltage
- P0873 Honda — 4th Clutch Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch Short Or Stuck OFF
- P0873 Pontiac — Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit High
- P0873 Saturn — Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit High
- P0873 Toyota — Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit High
Frequently Asked Questions about P0873 Code
What does OBDII code P0873 mean?
Code P0873 indicates a high voltage signal in the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' circuit, suggesting an issue with the sensor or related components.
What are the symptoms of code P0873?
Common symptoms include transmission slipping, harsh shifting, erratic gear changes, or activation of the check engine light.
What causes code P0873?
Possible causes include a faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM), or low/high transmission fluid levels.
Can I drive with code P0873?
Driving with this code is not recommended, as it may lead to further damage to the transmission and cause unsafe driving conditions.
How do I diagnose code P0873?
Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the transmission fluid pressure sensor, checking wiring and connectors for damage, using a multimeter to test sensor voltage, and scanning the TCM for additional codes.
How do I fix code P0873?
Repairs may include replacing the transmission fluid pressure sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, updating or reprogramming the TCM, and ensuring proper transmission fluid levels.
Does code P0873 always mean the sensor is bad?
No, the issue could stem from wiring problems, fluid contamination, or a malfunction in the TCM rather than the sensor itself.
Will clearing the code fix the problem?
Clearing the code may temporarily remove the check engine light, but the underlying issue must be repaired to prevent the code from returning.
How much does it cost to repair code P0873?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause but may range from $150 to $400 for sensor replacement, wiring repairs, or TCM updates.
Can low transmission fluid cause code P0873?
Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can affect pressure readings and trigger this code. Always check fluid levels and quality.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0873 OBDII Code
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