What is the P0864 fault error code? What is the Transmission Control Module (TCM), Communication Circuit Range/Performance fault code description? How can you fix P0864 fault? What are the causes and symptoms of the P0864 error code?
What is the P0864 fault code? What does it all mean?
The P0864 code can be defined as “Transmission Control Module (TCM) Communication Circuit Range/Performance” . TCM must communicate with an engine control module (ECM/ECU), and set of sensors in order to allow transmission to shift correctly. The necessary parameters are preloaded on all modules to ensure that the vehicle works properly. The fault code P0864 will be activated if the data stream from the ECM isn’t within the expected parameters.
Modern vehicles include two dozen or so control modules that are interconnected by the CAN (Controller Area Network). In simple words, the CAN bus system consists a number of circuits and cables. It allows different sensors, switches and modules data to be exchanged.
The TCM, for example, collects data from speed sensors, throttle position sensor and steering angle sensor. This information is then transmitted to the ECM via CAN bus. This data is used by the ECM to improve engine performance, optimize fuel usage, and calculate shift points.
Each control module has at least one closely related control module. This module monitors the operation and status of all other control modules. The auxiliary control module will detect a problem with the TCM and set a fault code. Incorrect input data to the TCM by the ECM or other control module means that the ECM cannot effectively manage gear shifts. Code P0864 is triggered.
P0864 fault codes can be found on vehicles made by Ford, Honda, Volkswagen and Audi.
What causes the P0864 Fault code?
Below are some reasons to set fault code P0864:
- – Damaged or broken cables or connectors in CAN bus system
- – Speed sensor or transmission sensor defect
- – Failure of mechanical transmission
- TCM/ECM that has a problem or requires a software upgrade (in most cases these two modules are combined and are known as PCM).
What are the P0864 Malfunction Code Symptoms
You may experience the following symptoms if your vehicle has the code P0864:
- – Illumination at the check engine lights
- – The Transmission Fault Light comes on
- – Incorrect or delayed gear changes
- Transmission may not shift to all gears or one.
- – Overheating the engine and gearbox
- – Smoke and strong odors from the gearbox
- – Increased fuel use
- – Set other transmission-related fault codes
- – ABS deactivation
- – Flashing the Traction Control Light
- – In slippery roads, lack of traction
- – Failure to operate the traction control system
- – The vehicle may enter safe mode, and the vehicle may be restricted to a specific gear
How do I fix the P0864 fault code?
Some repairs that could resolve the P0864 fault code are:
- – Repair of damaged connectors and cables in the CAN bus network
- – Replacing traction control module or switch
- – Replacing or reprogramming the transmission control module
- – Reprogramming and replacing the engine control module
- – Updating ECM/TCM software
Damaged cables or a faulty connector are usually the causes of P0864 OBDII error code. Check the manufacturer technical service bulletins for updates and other issues. If no issues are found, the transmission controller module and engine control units should be investigated.
How Serious Is the P0864 Fault Coding?
Fault code 0864 should be taken seriously as the failure of one of the control modules directly impacts several other modules. If this code is not decoded you risk more damage or being stranded. It is important to diagnose your vehicle if it displays P0864.
