Quick Answer
P0957 means: DTC P0957 indicates a high input signal from the transmission range sensor, affecting gear shifting performance.
Can I drive with P0957? It’s advised to address this issue immediately to prevent transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does P0957 mean and how does it affect my car?
The P0957 code suggests a malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit, indicating that the ECM is receiving a high input signal. This can impact your vehicle's ability to shift gears properly, leading to performance issues and potential safety risks.
What are the most common causes of P0957 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common cause of P0957 is a faulty transmission range sensor, which typically costs between $150 and $300 to replace. Other causes include damaged wiring and ECM issues, which may vary in repair costs.
Can I drive my car with P0957 or should I stop immediately?
It is not advisable to drive your vehicle with a P0957 code, as it can lead to erratic shifting and further transmission damage. It is best to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose P0957 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose P0957 with the GeekOBD APP, connect the device to your vehicle's OBD2 port, retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes, and review the freeze frame data to understand the conditions under which the code was triggered.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0957?
DTC P0957 commonly affects vehicles like the 2015-2018 Honda Accord and 2017 Toyota Camry, as well as other models equipped with similar transmission systems. Always check for recalls related to transmission issues for your specific model.
How can I prevent P0957 from happening again?
To prevent P0957 from recurring, ensure regular maintenance of your vehicle's transmission system, including regular fluid changes and inspections of wiring and connectors for signs of wear or damage.
What is P0957?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0957 indicates an issue with the transmission range sensor circuit, specifically signaling a 'high input' condition. This sensor is crucial for determining the gear position of the transmission. It communicates with the engine control module (ECM) to ensure the vehicle operates smoothly in the appropriate gear. When this code appears, it suggests that the ECM is receiving a voltage reading from the transmission range sensor that is higher than normal. This could lead to erratic shifting, potential transmission damage, or even the inability to shift into gear. For instance, if you own a 2015 Honda Accord or a 2017 Toyota Camry, experiencing this DTC could mean that you will face difficulties with your vehicle’s shifting performance, which can impact your driving experience and safety. Ignoring this code can lead to further complications, including transmission failure, which could result in costly repairs. Addressing the P0957 issue promptly is essential to maintain vehicle performance and safety.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0957 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue that requires attention.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, leading to a frustrating driving experience and potential safety hazards.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, which could result in more frequent trips to the gas station and increased expenses.
- Transmission may not shift into the desired gear, causing difficulty in driving, especially during acceleration.
- Unusual noises from the transmission area, such as grinding or whining, indicating potential mechanical issues.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0957 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty transmission range sensor (60% likelihood) - This is the most common cause, usually due to wear and tear or electrical issues.
- Damaged wiring or connectors (25% likelihood) - Corroded or broken wires can send incorrect signals to the ECM.
- Faulty ECM (10% likelihood) - Although less common, a malfunctioning ECM can misinterpret sensor signals.
- Improper installation of a new sensor (3% likelihood) - If the sensor was recently replaced, incorrect installation could lead to P0957.
- Software bugs or updates needed (2% likelihood) - In some cases, outdated software in the ECM could misread sensor inputs.
P0957 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Range Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty transmission range sensor to restore proper functionality.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors to resolve signal issues.
- Total: $100 - $250
- Success rate: 85%
ECM Reprogramming
Reprogramming or replacing the ECM if it's found to be faulty.
- Total: $400 - $800
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P0957
- 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 P0957 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0957. 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 to test the voltage from the transmission range sensor (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the voltage from the transmission range sensor (20-30 minutes).
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).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and address any lingering issues (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and address any lingering issues (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 Range Sensor Replacement on 2016 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2016 Honda Accord, 75,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced erratic shifting and check engine light activation.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed P0957. Multimeter tests indicated a faulty transmission range sensor.
Solution: Replaced the transmission range sensor and cleared the fault codes.
Cost: $220 (sensor cost: $150, labor: $70)
Result: Customer reported smooth shifting after repair, with no further issues.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2017 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2017 Toyota Camry, 50,000 miles
Problem: Check engine light on with poor acceleration.
Diagnosis: P0957 was confirmed; a visual inspection revealed damaged wiring.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and reconnected loose connectors.
Cost: $180 (repair cost: $100, labor: $80)
Result: Vehicle performance returned to normal with no additional codes.