Quick Answer
P087A means: P087A indicates a fault in the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit, often linked to performance issues.
Can I drive with P087A? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does P087A mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC P087A means there is a problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit. This can lead to poor shifting, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential overheating of the transmission, which may result in costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
What are the most common causes of P087A and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of P087A include a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, damaged wiring, or low transmission fluid. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $400 for sensor replacement. It's vital to address these issues quickly to avoid further damage.
Can I drive my car with P087A or should I stop immediately?
While it might be possible to drive short distances, it's not advisable to ignore the P087A code. Continuing to drive can lead to severe transmission damage, so it's best to seek immediate diagnosis and repair.
How can I diagnose P087A myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, perform an OBD2 scan to identify the P087A code and retrieve freeze frame data. Check for additional codes that might indicate related issues. Follow the app's recommended diagnostic steps for further insights.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P087A?
P087A is often found in models like the 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and certain Chevrolet Silverado models. These vehicles frequently experience related transmission issues, so it's crucial to monitor their performance.
How can I prevent P087A from happening again?
To prevent P087A, ensure regular transmission fluid changes, monitor fluid levels, and inspect wiring connections during routine maintenance. Keeping an eye on your transmission's performance can help catch issues early.
What is P087A?
DTC P087A indicates a problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit, specifically that it is either out of range or showing performance issues. This diagnostic trouble code commonly appears in vehicles such as the 2015-2019 Ford F-150, as well as some models from General Motors and Honda. The transmission fluid temperature sensor monitors the temperature of the transmission fluid and sends this data to the Engine Control Module (ECM). If the sensor detects abnormal readings, it can result in poor transmission performance, leading to shifting issues or even transmission overheating. Ignoring this code can lead to severe transmission damage over time, potentially resulting in costly repairs. Drivers may notice that their vehicle hesitates during gear shifts or that the check engine light illuminates on the dashboard. A properly functioning transmission is critical for the overall performance of the vehicle, and addressing P087A promptly is essential for maintaining optimal driving conditions.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P087A is present:
- The check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue that requires attention.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, especially noticeable when shifting gears or under load.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, suggesting that the vehicle is not operating efficiently.
- Rough shifting can occur, where the transmission feels jerky or unresponsive during gear changes.
- Unexpected overheating of the transmission, which might be accompanied by strange smells or fluid leaks.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P087A (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, which has a likelihood of about 60%. This can happen due to wear and tear over time.
- Another common cause is damaged wiring or poor connections in the sensor circuit, which can disrupt the signals sent to the ECM.
- Clogged or contaminated transmission fluid can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, so it's essential to maintain fluid quality regularly.
- Less common but serious causes include a failing transmission control module, which may affect multiple functions and require significant repairs.
- A rare but possible cause could be a transmission overheating due to a failing pump or low fluid level, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance.
P087A Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty sensor with an OEM part ensures accurate readings and proper transmission function.
- Total: $200 - $400
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring or connectors related to the transmission sensor circuit.
- Total: $100 - $250
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P087A
- 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 P087A Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P087A. 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 - 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).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission fluid temperature sensor and the associated wiring (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission fluid temperature sensor and the associated wiring (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes to ensure the issue is resolved (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes to ensure the issue is resolved (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and monitor for any returning symptoms (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and monitor for any returning symptoms (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 Temperature Sensor Replacement in a 2016 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2016 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported a check engine light and poor shifting performance.
Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, the P087A code was identified. Visual inspection revealed a faulty sensor.
Solution: Replaced the transmission fluid temperature sensor and topped off the transmission fluid.
Cost: $350 (sensor $200, labor $150)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle shifted smoothly, and the check engine light was cleared.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair for P087A in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado
Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 60,000 miles
Problem: Owner complained of erratic shifting and engine light on.
Diagnosis: P087A was confirmed; wiring was found corroded and damaged.
Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and cleaned the connectors.
Cost: $200 (labor $100, parts $100)
Result: Vehicle performance improved significantly, with no further issues reported.