OBD Guide

P0801

Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit/Open

P0801 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit/Open. Common causes: broken wiring in the control circuit, faulty reverse lock relay. Estimated repair cost: $6–33.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Yes, but get it checked soon
Approx. repair cost
$6–33 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Reverse gear does not engage
  • Transmission indicator flashes
  • The car goes into emergency mode
  • Delay when shifting into reverse gear
  • Alarm when trying to reverse

Causes

  • Broken wiring in the control circuit
  • Faulty reverse lock relay
  • Problems with the transmission control unit
  • Short circuit in the circuit
  • Mechanical fault of the gear selector

How to Fix

  1. Check the integrity of the control circuit wiring
  2. Test the reverse lock relay
  3. Check contacts and connectors of the control unit
  4. Scan the control unit memory for additional codes
  5. If necessary, replace the relay or restore the wiring

Related codes

Error P0801 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the P0801 code mean?

P0801 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit/Open

What causes a P0801 error code?

The most common causes of P0801 include: Broken wiring in the control circuit; Faulty reverse lock relay; Problems with the transmission control unit; Short circuit in the circuit.

How do I fix a P0801 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P0801: Check the integrity of the control circuit wiring. Test the reverse lock relay. Check contacts and connectors of the control unit. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P0801?

Yes, but get it checked soon

How much does it cost to fix P0801?

The estimated repair cost for P0801 is $6–33. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat