P0986 - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Range/Performance Problem in Honda, Toyota, and Ford Models

Quick Answer

P0986 means: P0986 indicates a malfunction in the Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit.

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

Can I drive with P0986? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent transmission damage.

Common Questions

What does P0986 mean and how does it affect my car?

The P0986 code signifies a malfunction in the Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit. This can cause your vehicle's transmission to overheat, leading to poor shifting performance and potentially serious damage over time. If you notice symptoms like erratic shifting or overheating, it's crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid costly repairs.

What are the most common causes of P0986 and how much does it cost to fix?

The most common cause of P0986 is a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, which typically costs between $150 and $300 to replace. Wiring issues are another frequent culprit and may range from $100 to $200 to repair. Regular maintenance and timely inspections can help prevent these issues.

Can I drive my car with P0986 or should I stop immediately?

While you may still be able to drive your vehicle, it's not advisable to ignore the P0986 code. Continuing to drive can lead to overheating and serious transmission damage, which could result in more extensive repairs. It's best to have it checked out as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose P0986 myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose P0986 with the GeekOBD APP, first connect the app to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Use the app to scan for any trouble codes and review the freeze frame data to understand the conditions under which the code was triggered. Look for any patterns in the data that may indicate a problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0986?

P0986 is frequently encountered in models such as the 2015-2018 Honda Accord, 2013-2017 Toyota RAV4, and several Ford vehicles, particularly those with automatic transmissions. It's wise to keep an eye on any recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to these models for potential issues.

How can I prevent P0986 from happening again?

To prevent P0986 from reoccurring, ensure regular transmission fluid changes as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Additionally, conduct routine inspections of the transmission wiring and connectors to detect any wear or damage early, and consider using high-quality transmission fluid.

What is P0986?

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0986 indicates a problem with the Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit. This sensor is crucial for monitoring the temperature of the transmission fluid, which plays a vital role in ensuring your vehicle's transmission operates efficiently. When the temperature exceeds specified parameters, it can lead to poor transmission performance, overheating, and even severe transmission damage. This code is commonly found in vehicles like the 2015-2018 Honda Accord, 2013-2017 Toyota RAV4, and various Ford models. A faulty sensor or wiring issues can trigger this code, causing the check engine light to illuminate and potentially leading to erratic shifting, slipping, or a complete failure of the transmission system. Ignoring this code can result in costly repairs down the road, as overheating can damage internal components. It's essential to address this issue promptly to maintain the longevity and performance of your vehicle's transmission system.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when P0986 is present:

  • Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a fault detected in the transmission system.
  • Erratic or harsh shifting, where the vehicle may hesitate or shift roughly during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Transmission overheating, which can be observed through unusual smells or the transmission fluid appearing burnt.
  • Decreased fuel economy, often noticeable as the vehicle struggles to maintain optimal shifting patterns.
  • Unresponsive transmission, where the vehicle may fail to shift into higher gears, leading to limited performance.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of P0986 (ordered by frequency):

  1. Faulty Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor, accounting for approximately 60% of cases. This sensor may fail due to wear and tear or exposure to extreme temperatures.
  2. Wiring issues, including damaged or corroded wiring that can disrupt the signal sent to the engine control unit. This is a common cause, occurring in about 25% of cases.
  3. Fluid contamination, where dirty or degraded transmission fluid affects sensor readings and overall system performance. Regular fluid changes can prevent this.
  4. Less common issues like transmission control module failure, which can lead to incorrect readings and shifting problems.
  5. Rarely, software glitches in the vehicle's onboard computer may cause erroneous readings, necessitating a software update or reprogramming.

P0986 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor.

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

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P0986
  • 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 P0986 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0986. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection of the transmission wiring and connectors for any obvious damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection of the transmission wiring and connectors for any obvious damage 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: Use the GeekOBD APP to scan for OBD2 codes, including P0986, and review freeze frame data to gather context on the fault (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to scan for OBD2 codes, including P0986, and review freeze frame data to gather context on the fault (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: Conduct component testing with a multimeter to check the functionality of the Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Conduct component testing with a multimeter to check the functionality of the Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor (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: Carry out a system function test to ensure all components are operating correctly after potential repairs (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: Carry out a system function test to ensure all components are operating correctly after potential repairs (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: Complete a road test to verify the repair success under various driving conditions (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Complete a road test to verify the repair success under various driving conditions (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 Fluid Sensor Replacement in a 2016 Honda Accord

Vehicle: 2016 Honda Accord, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported check engine light and erratic shifting.

Diagnosis: Used GeekOBD APP to retrieve P0986 code and found issues with the transmission fluid temperature sensor.

Solution: Replaced the faulty sensor and performed a fluid change.

Cost: $250 (parts: $150 for sensor, $100 for labor)

Result: Customer reported smooth shifting and no recurrence of the check engine light.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on a 2014 Toyota RAV4

Vehicle: 2014 Toyota RAV4, 60,000 miles

Problem: Vehicle experienced harsh shifting and check engine light illuminated.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed P0986; inspection showed frayed wiring.

Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and cleared the code.

Cost: $150 (parts: $50 for wiring, $100 for labor)

Result: Customer noted improved shifting and no further issues.

Diagnose P0986

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: P0986
System: Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Engine Codes