Quick Answer
P0973 means: P0973 indicates a high voltage signal from the transmission fluid pressure sensor, signaling a potential fault in the sensor or circuit.
Can I drive with P0973? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent potential transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does P0973 mean and how does it affect my car?
P0973 indicates a high voltage signal from the transmission fluid pressure sensor, which can lead to poor shifting, increased wear, and decreased fuel efficiency. If left unresolved, it may result in serious transmission issues.
What are the most common causes of P0973 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of P0973 include a faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor, damaged wiring, or low fluid levels. Repair costs typically range from $150 to $300 for sensor replacement and can vary based on additional repairs needed.
Can I drive my car with P0973 or should I stop immediately?
It's advisable to avoid driving your vehicle if the P0973 code appears. Continuing to drive can lead to further transmission damage and costly repairs.
How can I diagnose P0973 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose P0973 with GeekOBD APP, connect the device, retrieve the trouble codes, and check for any related issues. You can also view live data to monitor the transmission fluid pressure sensor readings.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0973?
P0973 is frequently seen in models like the 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2013-2016 Ford Focus, and various Honda Civics, especially those with higher mileage or insufficient maintenance.
How can I prevent P0973 from happening again?
Regular transmission fluid changes, timely repairs of any leaks, and routine inspections of electrical connections can help prevent the recurrence of P0973.
What is P0973?
The P0973 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates an issue with the transmission fluid pressure sensor circuit, specifically showing a high input. This means that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected that the voltage signal from the transmission fluid pressure sensor is above the expected range. In simpler terms, the ECM interprets this high voltage as a potential fault in the sensor or its wiring. This can lead to improper transmission operation, resulting in poor shifting, slipping gears, or even total transmission failure if not addressed promptly. If you're experiencing this issue, it's crucial to understand that it can significantly affect your vehicle's performance, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and increased wear on transmission components. Additionally, vehicles like the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, and various Honda models may frequently exhibit this code, especially if they have high mileage or have not been serviced regularly. Ignoring this code can lead to more severe issues, so addressing it quickly is essential for maintaining your vehicle's reliability and performance.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0973 is present:
- Check engine light illuminates and remains lit, indicating a persistent issue that needs addressing.
- Transmission may hesitate or slip during acceleration, causing a noticeable delay before the vehicle responds.
- Fuel economy may decrease by 10-20%, as the engine struggles to optimize performance with a faulty transmission.
- Unusual noises from the transmission when shifting, such as grinding or whining, indicating internal issues.
- Rough or harsh shifting, which can lead to long-term damage if the issue persists.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0973 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor (60% likelihood) - The most common cause of P0973 is a malfunctioning sensor that sends incorrect voltage signals.
- Damaged wiring or connectors (20% likelihood) - Wiring issues can lead to high resistance or short circuits, causing the ECM to read high voltages.
- Low transmission fluid levels (10% likelihood) - Insufficient fluid can cause erratic pressure readings, triggering the P0973 code.
- Internal transmission issues (5% likelihood) - Problems such as worn components or valve body issues may affect pressure readings.
- ECM problems (5% likelihood) - While rare, a malfunctioning ECM could misinterpret sensor data, leading to false codes.
P0973 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor is often the most straightforward fix for P0973.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair
If damaged wiring is found, repairs or replacements may be necessary to restore proper signal function.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 75%
Transmission Fluid Change
If low fluid levels are suspected, a fluid change can help improve sensor readings and transmission performance.
- Total: $80 - $150
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for P0973
- 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 P0973 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0973. 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 and resistance of the transmission fluid pressure sensor (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance of the transmission fluid pressure sensor (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: Check transmission fluid level and condition - Ensure the fluid is at the correct level and not burnt or contaminated (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: Check transmission fluid level and condition - Ensure the fluid is at the correct level and not burnt or contaminated (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and check for any new codes (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and check for any new codes (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 Pressure Sensor Replacement in a 2013 Chevrolet Cruze
Vehicle: 2013 Chevrolet Cruze, 85,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported a check engine light and rough shifting during acceleration.
Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, P0973 was identified. Visual inspection revealed a faulty sensor.
Solution: Replaced the transmission fluid pressure sensor and topped off the transmission fluid.
Cost: $250 (sensor $150, labor $100)
Result: After the repair, the vehicle shifted smoothly, and the check engine light was cleared.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on a 2015 Ford Focus
Vehicle: 2015 Ford Focus, 60,000 miles
Problem: Vehicle exhibited erratic shifting and a check engine light.
Diagnosis: P0973 was retrieved, and further inspection showed damaged wiring in the sensor's circuit.
Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and reconnected the sensor properly.
Cost: $180 (labor $100, parts $80)
Result: The vehicle's performance improved, and no further issues were reported after the repair.