Quick Answer
B079D means: DTC B079D indicates a malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit.
Can I drive with B079D? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does B079D mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC B079D indicates a malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit. This means your vehicle may have trouble shifting gears, which can lead to poor performance and even safety issues if not addressed. Ignoring this code can lead to further transmission damage and more costly repairs down the line.
What are the most common causes of B079D and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common cause of B079D is a faulty transmission range sensor, which typically costs between $150 and $300 to replace. Other causes include damaged wiring and ECU issues, with repair costs varying based on the specific problem.
Can I drive my car with B079D or should I stop immediately?
It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with a B079D code, as it could lead to severe transmission issues. If you notice any symptoms like slipping or hesitation, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected promptly.
How can I diagnose B079D myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose B079D using the GeekOBD APP, connect the app to your vehicle’s OBD2 port, retrieve the trouble codes, and examine freeze-frame data for context. This will help you understand when the issue occurs and what might be causing it.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B079D?
DTC B079D is most commonly found in 2015-2019 Ford Focus and Escape models. If you own one of these vehicles, it's important to be aware of this code and monitor for any related symptoms.
How can I prevent B079D from happening again?
To prevent B079D from reoccurring, maintain regular transmission service intervals, check wiring for wear and tear, and ensure professional installation of any transmission components if repairs are needed.
What is B079D?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B079D signifies an issue related to the control module for the vehicle's transmission range sensor circuit. This code often arises when the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics detect a malfunction in the circuit that communicates the position of the transmission gear. For car owners, this can lead to several driving complications, including difficulties in shifting gears and unexpected warning lights on the dashboard. Vehicles like the 2015-2019 Ford Focus and Escape are particularly susceptible to this code due to their electronic control units managing complex gear shifting operations. When this code is triggered, the vehicle may experience erratic shifting behavior, reduced fuel efficiency, and even potential safety concerns if the transmission fails to engage properly. It's vital for car owners to address this issue promptly, as ignoring it can lead to more severe transmission problems and potentially higher repair costs down the line. Understanding this code's implications can help owners make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B079D is present:
- Check engine light illuminates and remains on, indicating a persistent issue that requires diagnosis.
- Transmission may hesitate or slip during acceleration, making it feel like the vehicle is stalling.
- Fuel economy may decrease noticeably, often by 10-15%, as improper gear shifts can lead to inefficient engine operation.
- Difficulty shifting gears, particularly in automatic vehicles, which can cause stress and frustration during driving.
- Unusual noises from the transmission area during operation, which can indicate internal mechanical issues.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B079D (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of code B079D is a faulty transmission range sensor, with a likelihood of about 60%. This sensor's job is to communicate the gear position to the vehicle's control module, and if it fails, the system will trigger a fault code.
- Another potential cause is damaged wiring in the transmission circuit, which may account for roughly 20% of cases. Corrosion or frayed wires can disrupt the signal between the sensor and the control module.
- Improper installation of the transmission or lack of maintenance can lead to issues with the sensor, making it crucial for car owners to stay on top of regular maintenance.
- Less commonly, a failing control module may cause this code, which can be serious. This issue might represent around 15% of cases and usually requires professional diagnosis and expensive repairs.
- A rare but possible cause could be software issues within the vehicle's ECU, which may require updates or reprogramming by a certified technician.
B079D Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Range Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty transmission range sensor is the most common repair for code B079D.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair or Replacement
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors in the transmission circuit.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 70%
ECU Reprogramming
In rare cases, reprogramming the ECU may be necessary if software issues are present.
- Total: $100 - $400
- Success rate: 60%
Money-Saving Tips for B079D
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B079D Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B079D. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for any visible damage to the wiring harness, connectors, and the transmission range sensor itself
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for any visible damage to the wiring harness, connectors, and the transmission range sensor itself. Look for signs of corrosion or loose connections, taking about 5-10 minutes.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Connect the GeekOBD APP to your vehicle's OBD2 port to retrieve all codes and freeze-frame data
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Connect the GeekOBD APP to your vehicle's OBD2 port to retrieve all codes and freeze-frame data. This helps understand the fault context better, taking approximately 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission range sensor and related wiring for continuity and proper voltage levels, which may take around 20-30 minutes
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission range sensor and related wiring for continuity and proper voltage levels, which may take around 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the proper operation of the transmission range sensor and clear any codes with the GeekOBD APP to ensure the issue is resolved, taking about 10-15 minutes
Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the proper operation of the transmission range sensor and clear any codes with the GeekOBD APP to ensure the issue is resolved, taking about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the repair's success and ensure the transmission operates smoothly, which could take 15-20 minutes
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the repair's success and ensure the transmission operates smoothly, which could take 15-20 minutes.
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Transmission Range Sensor Replacement on 2017 Ford Focus
Vehicle: 2017 Ford Focus, 45,000 miles
Problem: The customer reported the check engine light was on and the vehicle hesitated during gear shifts.
Diagnosis: After running a diagnostic with the GeekOBD APP, the B079D code was confirmed, and a visual inspection revealed a faulty transmission range sensor.
Solution: Replaced the transmission range sensor and cleared the trouble code using the GeekOBD APP.
Cost: $250 (sensor cost: $150, labor: $100)
Result: The vehicle operated smoothly post-repair with no further issues reported.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2016 Ford Escape
Vehicle: 2016 Ford Escape, 60,000 miles
Problem: The vehicle had intermittent shifting issues and the check engine light was on.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic testing revealed the B079D code, and inspection of the wiring harness showed corrosion.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and connections, then tested the system.
Cost: $180 (wiring parts: $80, labor: $100)
Result: The repair resolved the shifting issues, and the check engine light remained off.