AutoCodes – Dodge – P0944 Dodge

P0944 Dodge 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 Dodge 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 50,521
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 01, 2020
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Code P0944 Dodge 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 Dodge - Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime - AutoCodes.com
P0944 Dodge Code - Loss Of Hydraulic Pump Prime

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0944 Dodge?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0944 Dodge?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0944 Dodge 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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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 P0944 Dodge Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge related to the loss of hydraulic pump prime?

The common symptoms include hard or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, and potential transmission overheating.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge triggering the loss of hydraulic pump prime?

The main causes can be a malfunctioning hydraulic pump, low transmission fluid level, faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor, or issues with the transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge indicating loss of hydraulic pump prime?

Diagnosis involves checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspecting the hydraulic pump for proper function, testing the transmission fluid pressure sensor, and scanning the vehicle for any additional trouble codes.

4. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge due to loss of hydraulic pump prime?

Repair tips include ensuring the transmission fluid is at the correct level and in good condition, replacing a faulty hydraulic pump, repairing or replacing a defective transmission fluid pressure sensor, and resetting the trouble code after repairs.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge, indicating loss of hydraulic pump prime, cause further damage to the vehicle?

Continued driving with this issue can potentially lead to further damage to the transmission, affecting its performance and longevity. It is recommended to address the problem promptly.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge associated with the loss of hydraulic pump prime?

The cost of repairs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge related to the loss of hydraulic pump prime without fixing the underlying problem?

While it is possible to clear the trouble code temporarily, it is not recommended as the issue causing the code may persist and lead to further complications with the vehicle's transmission.

8. Are there any preventive measures to avoid encountering OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge due to loss of hydraulic pump prime?

Regularly checking and maintaining proper transmission fluid levels, addressing any fluid leaks promptly, and servicing the transmission according to the manufacturer's recommendations can help prevent this issue.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge repair OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge related to the loss of hydraulic pump prime?

Some repairs related to this code may be within reach of a DIY enthusiast with the necessary tools and knowledge, but more complex issues may require professional diagnosis and repair.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0944 in a Dodge caused by the loss of hydraulic pump prime?

The repair time can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of the repairs needed. It may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to address this problem effectively.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0944 Dodge OBDII Code

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