AutoCodes – Generic – P0944

P0944 Code - Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime

Quick Answer

The Loss of Prime Test is used to prevent transmission defaults and erroneous fault codes during temporary loss of pump prime that may occur with low transmission fluid under severe braking conditions, start-up, etc. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Shift Lever Position, Plugged Transmission filter. 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: P0944 indicates Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Shift Lever Position, Plugged Transmission filter.
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 29,988

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 11, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0944 Description

The Loss of Prime Test is used to prevent transmission defaults and erroneous fault codes during temporary loss of pump prime that may occur with low transmission fluid under severe braking conditions, start-up, etc. and to point towards more subtle problems such as a plugged or ruptured oil filter. The Loss of Prime fault is set by a loss of hydraulic pressure in the transmission system. This condition, if sustained, will result in the vehicle being unable to move.

OBDII Code P0944 - Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime - AutoCodes.com — P0944 Code - Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0944?

Low transmission fluid level
Shift Lever Position
Plugged Transmission filter
Faulty Transmission Oil Pump

How to Fix the DTC P0944?

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 P0944 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

P0944 Dodge — Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime
P0944 Jeep — Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime

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.