What is the P0873 fault number? What is the explanation for the Transmission Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch “C” Circuit High error code? How do I fix P0873 fault codes? What are the causes and symptoms of the P0873 error code?
What is the P0873 fault code? What does it all mean?
Transmission control modules (TCM and powertrain control modules (PCM), use the transmission oil pressure sensor/switch to measure hydraulic pressure during shifting. The TFPS sensor can be found near the hydraulic controller unit (valve body / transmission machine) in 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. The voltage signal of the sensor will increase if the oil pressure is higher, and vice versa. This information is passed to the PCM/TCM for monitoring the transmission operating pressure and performing the shifting process.
The PCM periodically checks the transmission oil pressure sensor signals and compares them to the parameters in its memory. If the voltage signal from the “C” input circuit of the sensor is higher than expected, malfunction code P0873 will be triggered. For more information, refer to your vehicle’s repair manual.
Problems with the electrical circuit of a sensor are usually responsible for P0873. But, setting the code could result in transmission oil leaking, cracks in the hydraulic computer or low system operating tension. It could also be caused by mechanical issues.
P0873 fault codes can be found on many vehicles, including, but not limited, to Chevrolet, Honda Saturn Acura, Dodge Mercedes Benz, Mazda Mercedes Benz, Chrysler, Nissan Toyota GMC, Jeep, and Chrysler.
What causes the P0873 Fault code?
Below are some reasons to set fault code P0873:
- – Damaged wiring or loose connectors.
- – Sensor for oil pressure in transmissions that is defective
- – Transmission oil that is missing, dirty or contaminated
- Defective transmission high-pressure pump
- – Defective transmission temp sensor
- – Engine overheating
- – Transmission oil leaks can be caused by gaskets or other components
- – Mechanical transmission malfunctions
- – Defective PCM / TCM (rarely)
What are the symptoms of the P0873 Fault Code?
These symptoms may be present in vehicles with code P0873.
- – Illumination for the check engine light
- – The transmission warning lamp has arrived
- – Transmission oil that has been heated
- – Oily odours emanating from the gearbox
- Smoke coming out of the gearbox
- – incorrect gear shifting or delay in gear changes
- Gearbox slip
- Transmission oil leaks
- – PCM allows you to enter safe mode, lock the vehicle in 2nd and 3rd gears.
How do I fix the P0873 fault code?
The following repairs may be able to resolve the P0873 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 a damaged transmission high-pressure pumps
- – Replacing a faulty temperature sensor for transmission
- Repair of transmission oil leaks
- – Repair of mechanical transmission failures
- – Test and replacement of the TCM and PCM, if needed
How serious is the P0873 Fault code?
It is important to treat P0873 with seriousness as it could be caused by a faulty sensor, or hydraulic pressure issues. To prevent transmission damage, it is crucial to quickly diagnose and fix the problem.
