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P0868 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Transmission Fluid Pressure Low". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P0868 trouble code notes an issue with the pressure of the transmission fluid.
The P0868 code is a generic OBD-II code that detects a problem with the transmission fluid pressure. Transmission fluid serves to lubricate the transmission, and for vehicles with automatic transmissions, to cool the transmission system as well. When the powertrain control module (PCM) detects that the pressure of the transmission fluid is either too high or too low, the P0868 trouble code will be triggered.
A few different things can trigger the P0868 trouble code, including:
When the P0868 trouble code is detected, the check engine soon Warning Light will usually illuminate. The vehicle may also emit a strong burning smell from the overheating transmission, and may begin to smoke as well. The transmission may also fail, or may constantly slip.
The P0868 code should be diagnosed with the assistance of a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner. A trained mechanic will use the scanner to assess the freeze frame data. This allows the technician to gather information about the P0868 code, and search for other trouble codes that may be present as well. If no drivability issues have been detected by the mechanic beforehand, the codes should be reset and the vehicle restarted, to see if the P0868 trouble code returns. If the code does not return, it was likely triggered incorrectly.
If the P0868 trouble code remains, the mechanic should first inspect the transmission fluid levels. If the fluid is low, it should be assumed that there is a leak in the system, and the mechanic should begin searching for where the leak is coming from. Depending on the location of the leak, it may be able to be repaired, and the issue resolved. However, many areas of leakage suggest further damage to the transmission, which will need to be removed and possibly rebuilt or replaced.
If the transmission fluid level is normal, the mechanic should check to see if the transmission temperature sensors are faulty. Only after checking the sensors should the technician search for more severe issues, such as transmission failure or a malfunctioning PCM.
After the problem has been identified and repaired or replaced, the codes should once again be reset, and the vehicle restarted, to make sure that the issue is fully resolved.
The most common mistake that is made during P0868 code diagnosis is the failure to follow the basic OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol in the right order. Not adhering to the protocol can cause anything from extra time and trouble, to misdiagnosis.
One common issue comes when mechanics fix a leak in the system, without assessing whether or not the transmission has been damaged. Failure to properly inspect the transmission during P0868 code diagnosis can cause severe issues in the transmission.
The P0868 code is very serious, because of the damage that it can cause to the transmission. Even if a car is operating normally, it should not be driven when the P0868 code is detected. Driving a car with a P0868 code has the potential to completely damage the transmission, which is not only dangerous, but requires extensive repairs.
Some of the repairs for the P0868 trouble code include:
PCM failure is very rare, but if the PCM does not to be replaced, it will also need to be reprogrammed.
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