What is the P0870 fault code What is the Transmission Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch “C” Circuit malfunction description? How do I fix the P0870 fault code What are the symptoms and causes for the P0870 fault code
What is the P0870 fault code? What does it all mean?
A P0870 is a code that indicates that the transmission fluid pressure in the “C” circuit is outside the desired range. Transmission control module (TCM), or powertrain control module, uses the transmission oil pressure sensor for hydraulic pressure determination during shifting. The oil pressure sensor is typically located near the hydraulic control unit (valve-body / transmission computer) within the transmission. In some cases, it may be mounted near the transmission case.
The transmission oil pressure sensor converts mechanical oil pressure into an electric signal. If the oil level rises, the voltage signal from the sensor also increases. This information is sent to the PCM/TCM in order to monitor the transmission operating temperature and perform the shifting process. The P0870 fault code will be triggered if the voltage signal from sensor is not in line with manufacturer specifications. To identify the “C” circuit in your vehicle, consult specific repair manuals.
P0870 is often caused by electrical problems in the sensor’s circuit. Setting the code can result in transmission oil leaks or cracks in the transmission hydraulic computer. Also, it could cause low system operating pressure and transmission oil loss. It could also be caused by mechanical issues.
The P0870 fault code can affect vehicles of all makes and models, including Dodge, Ram, Mercedes Benz, Mazda, Chrysler, Duramax, Duramax, Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Chevrolet and GMC.
What is the P0870 Fault Code?
Below are some reasons to set fault code P0870:
- – Damaged wiring or loose connectors.
- – Sensor for oil pressure in transmissions that is defective
- – Transmission oil that is missing, dirty, or contaminated
- – Defective high pressure transmission pump
- – Defective temperature sensor
- – Engine overheating
- – Leakage of transmission oil from components or gaskets
- – Mechanical transmission malfunctions
- – Defective PCM / TCM (rarely)
What are the symptoms of the P0870 Fault code?
These symptoms may be present in vehicles with code P0870.
- – Illumination for check engine lights
- – The transmission warning lamp is now available
- – Transm oil heated to high temperatures
- – Oily odors emanating from the gearbox
- Smoke coming out of the gearbox
- Difficulty with gear changes
- – Gearbox slipping
- Transmission oil leaks
- – PCM allows you to enter safe mode, lock the vehicle in 2nd and 3rd gears.
How to Fix the P0870 Fault Code
There are several repairs that can resolve the P0870 fault code.
- Repair of damaged wiring, connectors and open or short circuits relating to the oil pressure sensor.
- – Replacing a defective transmission oil pressure sensor
- – Clean the transmission and replace the transmission fluid with the filter
- – Replacing an inoperable high-pressure transmission pump
- – Replacing the defective temperature sensor
- Repair of transmission oil leaks
- – Repair of mechanical transmission failures
- – Replacement of TCM and PCM by testing and replacing
How serious is the P0870 Fault code?
P0870 should be treated immediately as you can’t tell if it’s an electrical fault, a bad sensor or a fault in the transmission. You may experience severe drivability issues in any of these cases. You could cause the complete failure of your gearbox if you don’t intervene quickly. Leakage can cause the transmission oil to dry out completely. This code should never be taken lightly. It can lead to expensive repairs.
