P0950 - Understanding DTC P0950: Common in 2015-2018 Honda Civic and Other Models

Quick Answer

P0950 means: P0950 indicates a malfunction in the transmission range sensor 'A' circuit, affecting gear selection.

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

Can I drive with P0950? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further transmission issues.

Common Questions

What does P0950 mean and how does it affect my car?

P0950 indicates a malfunction in the transmission range sensor, which can lead to shifting problems and potential transmission failure if not addressed. It's crucial to resolve this issue promptly to maintain vehicle performance.

What are the most common causes of P0950 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include a faulty transmission range sensor, damaged wiring, or even a malfunctioning ECM. Repair costs can range from $150 for sensor replacement to over $1,200 for ECM replacement.

Can I drive my car with P0950 or should I stop immediately?

It's not advisable to drive your vehicle with a P0950 code, as it may lead to severe transmission damage. If you experience symptoms like difficulty shifting gears, it's best to have the vehicle inspected immediately.

How can I diagnose P0950 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Use the GeekOBD APP to scan for codes, check freeze frame data, and monitor live data from the transmission range sensor. This will help identify if it's functioning correctly.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0950?

Commonly affected vehicles include the 2015-2018 Honda Civic, 2012-2018 Ford Focus, and 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla. Always check for any recalls related to these models.

How can I prevent P0950 from happening again?

Regular maintenance, including checking and replacing transmission fluid, inspecting wiring for damage, and ensuring components are in good working order, can help prevent P0950 from recurring.

What is P0950?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0950 indicates an issue related to the transmission control system, specifically pointing to a malfunction in the transmission range sensor 'A' circuit. This problem can lead to improper transmission operation, affecting gear selection and overall vehicle performance. For many drivers, this could manifest as difficulty shifting gears or even a complete inability to engage any gear. The transmission range sensor plays a crucial role in communicating the current gear position to the vehicle's engine control module (ECM). When the ECM detects that the sensor's input is out of range or fails to respond, it triggers the P0950 code. Ignoring this code can lead to severe transmission problems, including slipping or overheating, potentially resulting in costly repairs down the line. It's essential to address this issue promptly to avoid further complications. Common vehicle makes and models that frequently encounter this code include the Honda Civic (2015-2018), Ford Focus (2012-2018), and Toyota Corolla (2014-2019). Always consult with a qualified technician if you suspect this error code has appeared in your vehicle, as they can provide a thorough diagnostic and suggest the best course of action.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when P0950 is present:

  • The check engine light illuminates, remaining on until the issue is resolved, indicating a problem with the transmission system.
  • Drivers may experience difficulty in shifting gears, particularly when accelerating, which can lead to a frustrating driving experience.
  • Fuel economy may noticeably decrease, with reports of a 10-15% drop in efficiency due to improper gear engagement.
  • You might hear unusual noises coming from the transmission, such as grinding or whining, which could indicate internal damage.
  • The vehicle may exhibit erratic behavior, such as sudden jolts or hesitation during gear changes, making it uncomfortable to drive.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of P0950 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of P0950 is a faulty transmission range sensor, accounting for about 60% of cases. This sensor can wear out or fail due to exposure to heat or electrical issues.
  2. Another likely cause is damaged wiring or connectors in the transmission system, which can lead to intermittent signals being sent to the ECM, complicating gear selection.
  3. A less common cause is a malfunctioning ECM, which may not process the sensor's signals correctly. Regular software updates can help prevent this issue.
  4. In rare cases, internal transmission problems like worn gears or clutches can cause the P0950 code, necessitating a more in-depth inspection and potentially costly repairs.
  5. Occasionally, external factors like fluid leaks or contamination can lead to sensor failure, so regular maintenance is crucial in preventing this scenario.

P0950 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Transmission Range Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty transmission range sensor to restore proper gear engagement.

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

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors within the transmission system.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 75%
ECM Reprogramming or Replacement

Reprogramming or replacing the ECM if it is found to be defective.

  • Total: $500 - $1,200
  • Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for P0950
  • 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 P0950 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0950. 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 or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission range sensor and associated wiring (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission range sensor and associated wiring (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 using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (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 (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (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 on 2016 Honda Civic

Vehicle: 2016 Honda Civic, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported difficulty shifting gears and check engine light illuminated.

Diagnosis: After a thorough diagnostic using the GeekOBD APP, a P0950 code was confirmed, indicating a faulty transmission range sensor.

Solution: Replaced the transmission range sensor and cleared the error codes.

Cost: $250 (sensor and labor included)

Result: The vehicle shifted smoothly post-repair, and the check engine light remained off.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2015 Ford Focus

Vehicle: 2015 Ford Focus, 60,000 miles

Problem: Driver experienced erratic shifting and the check engine light was on.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed a P0950 code, leading to an inspection of the wiring harness, which showed signs of wear.

Solution: Repaired damaged wiring and connectors in the transmission system.

Cost: $180 (wiring repair and labor)

Result: Post-repair, the vehicle's shifting was restored to normal, and the check engine light was cleared.

Diagnose P0950

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: P0950
System: Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Engine Codes