OBD Guide

P1CA0

Gear Shift Position Sensor 3 Circuit Low

P1CA0 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Gear Shift Position Sensor 3 Circuit Low. Common causes: gear position sensor 3 malfunction, open or short circuit in the sensor circuit. Estimated repair cost: $17–56.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Yes, but get it checked soon
Approx. repair cost
$17–56 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Incorrect gear shifting
  • The gearbox goes into emergency mode
  • Check Engine light comes on
  • Dips during acceleration
  • Increased fuel consumption

Causes

  • Gear Position Sensor 3 Malfunction
  • Open or short circuit in the sensor circuit
  • Poor contact in the sensor connector
  • Wiring Harness Problems
  • Transmission control module (TCM) malfunction

How to Fix

  1. Check resistance of gear position sensor 3
  2. Inspect the sensor circuit for breaks or damage
  3. Check the contacts in the sensor connector
  4. Scan the transmission control module for other errors
  5. Replace the gear position sensor if necessary
  6. Check and update TCM firmware if updates are available

Related codes

FAQ

What does the P1CA0 code mean?

P1CA0 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Gear Shift Position Sensor 3 Circuit Low

What causes a P1CA0 error code?

The most common causes of P1CA0 include: Gear Position Sensor 3 Malfunction; Open or short circuit in the sensor circuit; Poor contact in the sensor connector; Wiring Harness Problems.

How do I fix a P1CA0 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P1CA0: Check resistance of gear position sensor 3. Inspect the sensor circuit for breaks or damage. Check the contacts in the sensor connector. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P1CA0?

Yes, but get it checked soon

How much does it cost to fix P1CA0?

The estimated repair cost for P1CA0 is $17–56. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat