What Is the P07E8 Code?
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The code definition of the P07E8 fault code is “Transmission Range Control A Circuit/Open.” This indicates a problem with your vehicle’s Transmission Range Control A circuit, also called a Transmission Range Sensor and sometimes a Neutral Position Switch or Neutral Safety Switch in older vehicles. This generic powertrain code indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) has not communicated properly with the transmission range control circuit. This generic error can appear in any OBD-II-equipped vehicle, but Chevy is the most common vehicle in which to see this check engine code. As a general code, other codes will need to be tested to isolate the fault, as you can’t determine the core problem with just this code.
More About Error Code P07E8
The transmission range (TR) sensor informs the transmission control module (TCM) what position the gear selector is in when driving a car with an automatic transmission. It indicates whether the gear selector is in park, reverse, neutral, or drive. If the TR sensor gives the TCM a signal that isn’t quite right in control circuit A, whichever circuit that is for your particular vehicle, you will see code P07E8 set.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P07E8 Code?
The symptoms of the P07E8 code usually have to do with issues surrounding your vehicle’s transmission, as this is a transmission code. In many situations, the code may cause your vehicle to go into Limp Mode, also called Limp Home Mode or Limp-In Mode. This is a fail-safe mode where your vehicle speed is capped, and certain “unnecessary” systems, like your air conditioning system, may turn off. Poor shifting, even up to an inability to switch gears, can also happen with the P07E8 error code, as can reduced acceleration and reduced fuel efficiency. In all cases, you should see the check engine light or other malfunction indicator lamp turn on. This code also doesn’t usually cause a no-start condition, but you may see general misfire conditions.
What Are Some Causes of a P07E8 Code?
The most common cause of the P07E8 OBD-II trouble code is simply an issue with your transmission range control sensor. This may include damaged, defective, or shorted wiring, a problem with the transmission range sensor, shorted or open switch harnesses, and a bad connection to the switch circuit. Occasionally, the problem may lie with dirty transmission fluid or a low fluid level, or with a problem in the area surrounding the transmission range control sensor, such as the manual shift valve linkage or valve body. There may be an ECM or PCM problem in rare cases, but this should be at the bottom of your list of possibilities.
How Serious Is the P07E8 Code?
As with any other transmission code, you should treat the P07E8 diagnostic code as potentially very serious. Any time there’s a problem with your transmission, the problem could worsen, possibly leading to transmission damage and other engine damage. Transmission repairs are very difficult and expensive, and you want to avoid the need for extensive transmission repairs. Instead, you may be able to fix the problem just by tackling this generic code early.
Can I Still Drive with a P07E8 Code?
You may be physically able to drive with the P07E8 code active. In many situations, this code results in Limp Mode, making driving the car frustrating but not impossible. However, even if the car is not displaying this symptom, it’s a good idea to stop driving once you know this code is active. The more you drive, the more likely you will eventually sustain transmission damage, which is the top thing you want to avoid regarding the P07E8 code.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P07E8 Code?
Diagnosis for the P07E8 code can be tricky because there is a long list of possible problems. While it is true that the transmission range control sensor itself is most frequently bad, you can still replace the sensor and hope that it fixes the problem. You need to go through the diagnostic process to ensure you know your actual code’s core problem. An expert will know how to do this, but a DIYer might not.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P07E8 Code?
Inspection of the P07E8 code can also be difficult. To distinguish the fault location from other common faults, especially intermittent and electrical faults, you may require an OBD-II scanner, visual inspection of the range sensor, wiring harness, wires, and connectors, test driving processes, and a check for circuit resistance. If you’re not used to checking various wires and circuits, this can be an especially difficult code for a DIYer. An experienced mechanic can help you understand and permanently fix the problem.
Need Additional Help with Your P07E8 Code?
Many people will need additional help with their P07E8 code, especially because it’s a transmission code, and these codes are often more difficult to handle. An advanced auto mechanic at an auto shop can help you understand the problem, from a minor fault to faulty sensors to a more serious transmission module problem, and find a solution.
The first step should be to find auto stores in your area. Finding a local auto repair shop at a convenient location will help you get your vehicle to the nearest service station more easily, especially if you’re experiencing erratic driving symptoms and general idle or drivability issues.
Getting more information about any additional codes you see on your scan tool is also important. The OBD-II database at KBB.com is an important part of this process, as it can define code errors besides just the P07E8 code.
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