Quick Answer
P0913 means: P0913 indicates a malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit.
Can I drive with P0913? Immediate attention is advised to avoid severe transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does P0913 mean and how does it affect my car?
P0913 indicates a malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit, affecting the vehicle's ability to shift gears smoothly. This could lead to erratic shifting, increased fuel consumption, and potentially prevent the vehicle from starting.
What are the most common causes of P0913 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common cause of P0913 is a faulty transmission range sensor, which typically costs between $100 - $300 to replace. Other causes include wiring issues or ECM software problems, which can also incur additional costs.
Can I drive my car with P0913 or should I stop immediately?
It is not advisable to drive your car with a P0913 code, as it can lead to severe transmission damage and unsafe driving conditions. It is best to address the issue immediately.
How can I diagnose P0913 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port, scan for codes, and review the freeze frame data. This will help you understand the context of the fault and guide your further troubleshooting efforts.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0913?
P0913 is frequently reported in 2015-2018 Ford F-150 models, as well as some Dodge Ram trucks and Chevrolet Silverado models. Always check for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to this issue.
How can I prevent P0913 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking and cleaning electrical connections, and ensuring your transmission fluid is at the correct level, can help prevent issues related to the transmission range sensor.
What is P0913?
DTC P0913 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a problem with the transmission range sensor circuit. When this code is triggered, it suggests that the engine control module (ECM) has detected an issue with the position of the transmission gear selector. This can occur in vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, particularly in models like the 2015-2018 Ford F-150, among others. The transmission range sensor helps the vehicle understand which gear is currently engaged, ensuring that shifting occurs smoothly and efficiently. If the ECM receives conflicting signals from the sensor, or if the sensor itself is malfunctioning, it can lead to erratic shifting, difficulty in changing gears, or even prevent the vehicle from starting altogether. This code often correlates with symptoms like a check engine light, unexpected gear changes, or slipping transmission. Ignoring this code can result in serious transmission issues, leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it’s crucial for vehicle owners to understand the implications of P0913 and seek timely diagnostic help.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0913 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a serious issue that needs attention.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, making it difficult to maintain speed and smooth driving.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, causing more frequent visits to the gas station.
- Transmission may slip between gears, causing a rough and unpredictable driving experience.
- Difficulty in starting the vehicle, with potential no-start conditions due to sensor failure.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0913 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a faulty transmission range sensor, which accounts for about 70% of cases. This sensor can wear out over time or become contaminated with dirt and grease.
- The second most common cause is wiring issues, such as damaged wiring or poor connections, which can disrupt the signal from the sensor to the ECM.
- Another cause is software glitches in the vehicle’s ECM, which may require a software update or reprogramming to resolve.
- Less common but serious causes include internal transmission damage, which may require extensive repairs or a full transmission replacement.
- A rare but possible cause is an issue with the vehicle’s body control module (BCM), which can also affect the sensor's performance.
P0913 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Range Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty transmission range sensor to restore proper function.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring that affects sensor function.
- Total: $75 - $200
- Success rate: 80%
ECM Reprogramming
Updating or reprogramming the engine control module to eliminate software issues.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P0913
- 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 P0913 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0913. 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 range sensor (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission range sensor (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (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: P0913 Diagnosis and Repair in a 2016 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2016 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light and hesitation during acceleration.
Diagnosis: After running a diagnostic scan with GeekOBD APP, P0913 was confirmed. A visual inspection showed signs of wear on the transmission range sensor.
Solution: Replaced the faulty transmission range sensor and cleared the codes. Conducted a road test to confirm proper operation.
Cost: $250 (sensor replacement and labor included)
Result: The check engine light was cleared, and the vehicle performed smoothly with no further issues.
Case Study 2: Resolving P0913 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado
Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 60,000 miles
Problem: Owner experienced shifting problems and a persistent check engine light.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic testing revealed a P0913 code. Further inspection found damaged wiring connecting to the transmission range sensor.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and re-scanned the system to ensure no codes remained.
Cost: $180 (wiring repair and labor)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle shifted smoothly, and the check engine light was extinguished.