The gearshift position circuit is very important to the operation of your vehicle. When you move the shifter into a gear, the transmission position sensor sends an electrical signal to the TCM/ECU to let it know what gear you have selected. If there is an unusually high-voltage signal on this circuit, the computer may not know what gear you have selected. When this happens, it will save a P0917 DTC.
What Transmission Do I Have?
How Serious is the Code?
In terms of severity, a P0917 diagnostic trouble code ranks pretty high. The transmission gear position sensor must be able to communicate with the TCM, so the correct gear can be engaged. If it can’t, you will experience a number of drivability problems that could eventually lead to an inoperable vehicle.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a P0917 include:
- Harsh gear changes
- Erratic transmission behavior
- Gear changes take longer than usual
- Transmission refuses to go into gear
Causes
- Damaged wiring and/or connectors
- Failed sensor
- ECU/TCM issues
How to Diagnose the Code?
Diagnosing a P0917 OBDII trouble code, involves a number of electrical or mechanical tests. But to do it right, the technician should follow the manufacturer’s diagnostic procedure.
What Transmission Do I Have?
What Repairs Will Fix P0917?
- Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors
- Replace failed sensors
- Update or replace ECU/TCM
Related Codes
- P0914 – Gear Shift Position Circuit
- P0915 – Gear Shift Position Circuit Range/Performance
- P0916 – Gear Shift Position Circuit Low
- P0918 – Gear Shift Position Circuit Intermittent
- P0919 – Gear Shift Position Control Error
- P0920 – Gear Shift Forward Actuator
