P0871 means Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C Circuit Range/Performance. The pressure sensor or switch C signal is present but does not match what the computer expects for the commanded gear. It is a generic OBD-II code, so the definition is the same on any make, but the most likely cause varies by engine; confirm with a scan tool and the service information for your vehicle before buying parts.
What P0871 means
Electronically controlled automatics are run by a transmission control module (TCM), a separate box or part of the engine computer. It reads speed sensors, the range sensor and fluid temperature to decide when to shift, and drives solenoids that apply clutches and the torque converter clutch. Many basic code readers only show the generic P0700; a scan tool that reads the transmission module shows the specific fault. Check fluid level and condition first, since low or burnt fluid causes many transmission codes.
P0871 symptoms
- Check engine light
- Limp mode or a gear held
- Harsh or missing shifts
Common causes of P0871
- Low fluid level
- Damaged internal harness or connector
- Failed pressure switch or switch manifold
- Sticking valve or internal leak in the related circuit
How to diagnose P0871
- Check transmission fluid level and condition first
- Inspect the case connector and internal harness
- Read live pressure switch states on a scan tool while shifting
- Check for other pressure switch or solenoid codes that share a circuit
Can you drive with P0871?
Only as needed; get it checked before the transmission is damaged by wrong pressure.
P0871 tips
Range/performance pressure codes can come from a sticking valve or internal leak, not only the switch. A line pressure test helps separate them.
Will P0871 clear itself?
If the fault stops, the computer turns off the check engine light by itself after several drive cycles without seeing it again, and the code stays in memory as history for a while. Clearing P0871 with a scan tool after a repair is fine, but if the cause is still there the code returns, sometimes within one drive. Disconnecting the battery also clears codes on most vehicles, but it erases learned fuel trims and idle settings as well.
Related codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| P0870 | Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C Circuit |
| P0872 | Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C Circuit Low |
| P0873 | Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C Circuit High |
Guides that help
When it is more than a sensor
If the fault turns out to be internal (worn clutches, a failed converter or a damaged valve body), compare a rebuild with a replacement in transmission rebuild vs replacement and transmission replacement cost, identify your unit with what transmission do I have?, and browse our transmissions.
Shipping is a flat $80.00 per order to US addresses, with 15-day free returns. Questions? Ask a parts specialist.