P0816 - Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Performance Problem in Popular Vehicles

Quick Answer

P0816 means: P0816 indicates a problem with the transmission range sensor circuit, affecting gear position awareness by the ECM.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with P0816? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further transmission damage.

Common Questions

What does P0816 mean and how does it affect my car?

The P0816 code indicates that the transmission range sensor circuit is not functioning correctly, which can lead to shifting issues and affect overall vehicle performance. It’s crucial to address this problem to prevent transmission damage and ensure your vehicle operates smoothly.

What are the most common causes of P0816 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include a faulty transmission range sensor, damaged wiring, or low transmission fluid levels. Repair costs typically range from $150 to $300 for a sensor replacement, while wiring repairs can cost between $100 and $200.

Can I drive my car with P0816 or should I stop immediately?

It's not advisable to drive your vehicle with a P0816 code. Doing so can lead to further damage to the transmission, increased repair costs, and safety hazards on the road.

How can I diagnose P0816 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port, retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, and view freeze frame data to understand the context of the issue. This can guide you in identifying the specific problem with the transmission range sensor.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0816?

The P0816 code is commonly found in vehicles like the 2010-2015 Chevrolet Equinox, 2012-2017 Honda CR-V, and several Ford models from 2009-2015. Check for any manufacturer recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to this issue.

How can I prevent P0816 from happening again?

To prevent future occurrences of P0816, ensure regular transmission fluid changes, inspect wiring and connectors for damage during routine maintenance, and address any shifting issues promptly before they escalate.

What is P0816?

The P0816 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates an issue with the transmission range sensor circuit. This component is crucial as it informs the engine control module (ECM) about the transmission's gear position. When you experience this DTC, it typically means the ECM has detected a discrepancy between the expected and actual input from the transmission range sensor. This can lead to significant driving issues, such as shifting problems or the inability to engage certain gears. Common in vehicles such as the 2010-2015 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2012-2017 Honda CR-V, the P0816 code can compromise vehicle performance. It may result in symptoms like a check engine light being illuminated, erratic shifting, or even a complete inability to shift into gear. Ignoring this code can lead to further transmission damage and increase repair costs, making it essential to address promptly. It's advisable to use an OBD2 scanner like the GeekOBD APP for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of your vehicle's fault codes, ensuring a proper resolution of the issue.

System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when P0816 is present:

  • Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating an unresolved issue with the transmission.
  • Engine may hesitate or jerk during acceleration, causing a rough driving experience.
  • Fuel economy may decrease by 10-15%, as the vehicle struggles to shift properly.
  • Transmission may fail to engage into certain gears, leading to difficulties in driving.
  • Unusual transmission noise when shifting, which may indicate mechanical problems.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of P0816 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause is a faulty transmission range sensor, which fails about 60% of the time. This sensor can wear out or suffer from electrical issues.
  2. A second common cause is damaged wiring or connectors related to the transmission range sensor, which can interrupt the signal to the ECM.
  3. Another possible cause is low transmission fluid levels or contamination, which can affect transmission performance and sensor function. Regular transmission fluid maintenance can prevent this.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a malfunctioning ECM or issues within the transmission itself, leading to complex repairs.
  5. A rare cause could be software issues within the vehicle’s onboard computer systems, which may require a software update or reprogramming.

P0816 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Transmission Range Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty transmission range sensor to restore proper function.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
Wiring and Connector Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring to ensure proper signal transmission.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P0816
  • 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 P0816 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0816. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the transmission range sensor and associated circuits for proper voltage and continuity (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the transmission range sensor and associated circuits for proper voltage and continuity (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes, ensuring everything functions correctly (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes, ensuring everything functions correctly (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and monitor for the return of any symptoms (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and monitor for the return of any symptoms (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

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 in a 2013 Chevrolet Equinox

Vehicle: 2013 Chevrolet Equinox, 85,000 miles

Problem: The customer reported that the check engine light was on and the vehicle hesitated when shifting.

Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, we confirmed the P0816 code and inspected the transmission range sensor, which showed signs of failure.

Solution: Replaced the transmission range sensor and cleared the codes. The vehicle operated smoothly afterward.

Cost: $245 (sensor: $150, labor: $95)

Result: The check engine light remained off, and the customer reported improved shifting performance.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on a 2015 Honda CR-V

Vehicle: 2015 Honda CR-V, 70,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced erratic shifting and a persistent check engine light.

Diagnosis: Scanned for trouble codes with GeekOBD APP, confirmed P0816, and discovered damaged wiring connected to the transmission range sensor.

Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and verified the sensor’s performance.

Cost: $180 (wiring repair: $80, labor: $100)

Result: The vehicle shifted smoothly, and the check engine light was resolved.

Diagnose P0816

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: P0816
System: Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Engine Codes