AutoCodes – Generic – P1C97

P1C97 Code - Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High

Quick Answer

This diagnostic compares the output signal of the sensor to threshold values of normal operations. Common causes include Faulty Gear Shift Position Sensor 1, Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 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: P1C97 indicates Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Gear Shift Position Sensor 1, Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 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 1,423

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 Apr 12, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1C97 Description

This diagnostic compares the output signal of the sensor to threshold values of normal operations. When the signal is out of range the diagnostic will be considered failing. The sensor is mounted next to the 1st - 3rd gear engagement actuator to detect a linear movement of the piston. For this purpose, a permanent magnet is mounted on the piston which is moved over a complete travel stroke. The magnet position generates a saturation area in the internal ferromagnetic core of the sensor which is transformed to an output position signal. The sensor provides an output signal with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) at a fixed frequency and duty cycle proportional to the piston position of the actuator.

OBDII Code P1C97 - Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P1C97 Code - Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1C97?

Faulty Gear Shift Position Sensor 1
Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM)

How to Fix the DTC P1C97?

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 P1C97 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

P1C97 Chrysler — Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High
P1C97 Dodge — Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High
P1C97 Fiat — Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High
P1C97 Jeep — Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit High

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 P1C97 Code

1. What does OBDII code P1C97 mean?

P1C97 indicates an issue with the Gear Shift Position Sensor 1 Circuit, specifically that it is experiencing a high voltage condition beyond its normal range.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P1C97?

Symptoms may include erratic or incorrect gear position display, inability to shift properly, transmission stuck in one gear, or the vehicle going into limp mode.

3. What causes the P1C97 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty gear shift position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, short circuits, or a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM).

4. Can I still drive my car with a P1C97 code?

Driving with this code may not be safe, as the transmission may not respond properly, leading to limited performance or potential damage to the drivetrain.

5. How is P1C97 diagnosed?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the gear shift position sensor and its wiring for damage, and test the circuit for proper voltage and continuity.

6. How do I fix code P1C97?

Repairs may include replacing the gear shift position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the TCM if necessary.

7. What tools are needed to troubleshoot P1C97?

Troubleshooting requires an OBDII scan tool, a multimeter for testing voltage and continuity, and possibly a wiring diagram for the transmission system.

8. How much does it cost to fix a P1C97 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause but could range from $100 to $500 for parts and labor, with higher costs if the TCM needs replacement.

9. Can a dead battery cause a P1C97 code?

A weak or dead battery is unlikely to directly cause this code but could contribute to electrical issues that may trigger related transmission problems.

10. Does clearing the code fix the P1C97 issue?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove it, but the underlying problem must be fixed to prevent the code from returning and avoid further damage.