Quick Answer
P086A means: DTC P086A signifies a malfunction with the transmission fluid pressure sensor, impacting transmission performance.
Can I drive with P086A? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does P086A mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC P086A indicates a problem with the transmission fluid pressure sensor. This can lead to erratic shifting, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially serious transmission issues if not addressed promptly.
What are the most common causes of P086A and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty sensor, low transmission fluid, or electrical issues. Repair costs can range from $150 to $400 for a sensor replacement, and about $100 to $200 for fluid-related services.
Can I drive my car with P086A or should I stop immediately?
While you might be able to drive the car for a short distance, it's not advisable to ignore the P086A code. Continuing to drive can lead to further transmission damage and more expensive repairs.
How can I diagnose P086A myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for codes, view freeze frame data, and monitor sensor readings. This helps you understand the context of the P086A code and identify the issue's root cause.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P086A?
DTC P086A is frequently found in vehicles like the 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, 2015-2019 Ford F-150, and 2016-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Always check for updates or recalls related to transmission issues.
How can I prevent P086A from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking and replacing transmission fluid as needed, and inspecting wiring and connections can help prevent the P086A code from reappearing.
What is P086A?
DTC P086A indicates a problem with the transmission fluid pressure sensor, which is crucial for the operation of automatic transmissions. This code typically arises when the transmission control module (TCM) detects that the pressure readings from the fluid pressure sensor are out of an expected range. A malfunctioning transmission fluid pressure sensor can lead to erratic transmission behavior, including hard shifts, slipping gears, or even complete transmission failure in some cases. For vehicle owners, seeing the P086A code can be concerning, as it may be indicative of deeper transmission issues. Commonly, this code appears in vehicles like the 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2015-2019 Ford F-150, among others. If ignored, the problem may worsen, leading to costly repairs. In practical terms, if your vehicle starts to exhibit symptoms like unusual shifting patterns or warning lights, it’s essential to address the P086A code promptly to prevent further damage.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P086A is present:
- The check engine light illuminates, remaining on consistently, indicating a problem that needs immediate attention.
- You may feel the engine hesitating or jerking during acceleration, which can make driving uncomfortable and unsafe.
- Fuel economy could decrease significantly, up to 10-15%, as the transmission struggles to operate efficiently.
- Shifting between gears may feel rough or delayed, indicating that the transmission is not functioning as it should.
- In some cases, you might notice odd noises coming from the transmission, such as grinding or whining, suggesting mechanical issues.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P086A (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of the P086A code is a faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor, which occurs in about 60% of cases. This failure can be due to wear and tear, exposure to heat, or electrical issues.
- Another cause might be low transmission fluid levels, which can occur due to leaks or inadequate maintenance. This situation can lead to erratic sensor readings.
- Electrical issues, such as damaged wiring or poor connections to the sensor, can trigger the code. Regular inspections can help prevent these issues.
- Less commonly, internal transmission problems like a failing pump can lead to pressure inconsistencies. This is serious and may require extensive repairs.
- A rare cause could be a software glitch in the TCM itself, which might require a software update or reprogramming to resolve.
P086A Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor can resolve the issue, along with any necessary wiring repairs.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 85%
Fluid Flush and Replacement
In cases of low fluid levels, a complete fluid flush and replacement may be needed to restore proper function.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P086A
- 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 P086A Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P086A. 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).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Utilize a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the fluid pressure sensor and its wiring (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Utilize a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the fluid pressure sensor and its wiring (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify proper operation of the transmission and clear the codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify proper operation of the transmission and clear the codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the repair was successful (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm the repair was successful (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 Fluid Sensor Replacement on 2016 Chevy Silverado
Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 65,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light and rough shifting.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan revealed P086A. Visual inspection showed a damaged fluid pressure sensor.
Solution: Replaced the transmission fluid pressure sensor and performed a fluid flush.
Cost: $350 (sensor $200, labor $150)
Result: Check engine light cleared, and customer reported smooth shifting post-repair.
Case Study 2: Fluid Flush and Wiring Repair on 2017 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 50,000 miles
Problem: Driver experienced delayed shifts and check engine light.
Diagnosis: P086A was confirmed after diagnostic tests indicated low fluid levels and wiring issues.
Solution: Flushed the transmission fluid and repaired the damaged wiring.
Cost: $180 (fluid $100, labor $80)
Result: Resolved shifting issues and improved transmission performance.