Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
The automatic gearbox has its own control unit (TCM), which decides when to shift using speed, temperature, pressure and selector position sensors. The selector position sensor (also called the neutral safety switch) tells the control unit whether it is in P, R, N or D. This code means the signal arrives, but its values don't make sense.
What the car has detected
The position sensor signals deviate from the expected value by more than allowed (for example, the sum of its two signals doesn't give the reference value).
It may prevent starting, show the wrong gear or leave you without reversing lights. Get it checked soon.
Symptoms
- Engine warning light on
- The engine won't start in P or N
- The gear indicator flashes, shows dashes or the wrong gear
- Reversing lights not working or coming on at the wrong time
- Wrong shifts or limp mode
Possible causes
- Selector cable incorrectly adjusted
- Faulty selector position sensor
- Faulty wiring or connectors
Checks for the garage
- Check that the actual selector position matches what the control unit sees in diagnostics
- Adjust the selector cable or linkage if it doesn't match
- Check the sensor connector and wiring, flexing them to find intermittent faults
- Test the sensor per the manual before replacing it
Next step
Have the selector cable adjustment, the position sensor and its wiring checked.
Go to a garage if the car won't start in P or N or if the displayed gear doesn't match the real one. Adjustment and testing need diagnostics.