AutoCodes – Generic – P273A

P273A Code - Transmission Friction Element 'G' Apply Time Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) will monitor the amount of force needed to assist with vehicle steering when the ignition is ON and the voltage supply to the PSCM is above 6 volts, all other Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) sensors are functioning correctly and the EPAS gear is providing assist. Common causes include Low tire air pressure, Damaged steering gear bellows boot, Contaminated gear/rack. 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: P273A indicates Transmission Friction Element 'G' Apply Time Range/Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Low tire air pressure, Damaged steering gear bellows boot, Contaminated gear/rack.
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 3,510

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 30, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P273A Description

OBDII Code P273A - Transmission Friction Element 'G' Apply Time Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P273A Code - Transmission Friction Element 'G' Apply Time Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P273A?

Low tire air pressure
Damaged steering gear bellows boot
Contaminated gear/rack
Inner tie rods
Steering gear internal failure

How to Fix the DTC P273A?

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 P273A 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 P273A code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 P273A Code

What does the OBDII code P273A mean?

P273A indicates an issue with the apply time or performance of Transmission Friction Element 'G,' suggesting a possible problem with internal transmission components or control systems.

What are the common symptoms of code P273A?

Symptoms may include harsh or delayed shifting, slipping gears, a decrease in fuel efficiency, or the illumination of the check engine light.

What causes the P273A code to trigger?

Common causes include low or dirty transmission fluid, a faulty transmission solenoid, worn clutch packs, internal transmission damage, or issues with the transmission control module (TCM).

Can driving with a P273A code cause further damage?

Yes, continuing to drive with this code can lead to further damage to the transmission, potentially resulting in costly repairs.

How is the P273A code diagnosed?

A mechanic will typically perform a scan to confirm the code, inspect the transmission fluid, check for other related codes, and test the transmission solenoid and related components.

Can low transmission fluid cause the P273A code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can lead to improper operation of the friction element and trigger this code.

How do you fix the P273A code?

Repairs may include replacing or cleaning the transmission solenoid, servicing the transmission fluid, repairing internal transmission components, or reprogramming the TCM if necessary.

Is the P273A code specific to certain vehicles?

No, P273A is a generic OBD-II code, but the affected transmission systems and components may vary depending on the vehicle make and model.

How much does it cost to repair a P273A code?

Repair costs vary widely depending on the cause, ranging from a simple fluid replacement (around $100-$200) to transmission rebuilds or replacements, which can cost several thousand dollars.

Can I reset the P273A code without fixing the issue?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying problem may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the code will likely return if the issue persists.