P0987 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch E Circuit

P0987 code definition

The P0987 code is a generic powertrain code related to the transmission, including pressure faults and sensor failures. In this case, the engine control module (ECM) has detected a fault with the transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch in the E Circuit.

Codes related to the P0987 include:

• P0710 Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor Circuit
• P0711 Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
• P0867 Transmission Fluid Pressure
• P0868 Transmission Fluid Pressure Low
• P0869 Transmission Fluid Pressure High
• P0988 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “E” Circuit Range/Performance
• P0989 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “E” Circuit Low
• P0990 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “E” Circuit High
• P0991 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “E” Circuit Intermittent

What the P0987 code means

A P0987 code is stored when the ECM receives a voltage signal from the transmission fluid pressure sensor that is outside of allowed preset parameters. In this case, the ECM has detected a fault with the E circuit. Check your vehicle’s service manual for the specifics on how to locate the E circuit for your vehicle’s particular make and model.

What causes the P0987 code?

Several problems may cause a P0987 code including:

• Low transmission fluid
• Dirty transmission fluid
• Damaged or defective line pressure sensor
• Open or shorted line pressure sensor harness
• Poor electrical connection with the line pressure sensor
• Damaged or defective ECM (rare)

What are symptoms of the P0987 code?

Symptoms of a P0987 code may include:

• Check engine or warning light may illuminate
• Vehicle may shift roughly
• Vehicle may not shift at all
• There may be no symptoms other than a stored P0987 trouble code

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0987 code?

A mechanic may use several methods to diagnose a P0987 trouble code, including: * Utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for a stored P0987 trouble code * Check the transmission fluid level * Check the transmission fluid quality * If the transmission fluid is dirty, check the transmission pan for signs of debris or contamination * Visually inspect all related wiring, connectors, and related components for signs of damage * Using a digital volt/ohmmeter, the resistance of the fluid pressure sensor/switch for E Circuit

How serious is the P0987 code?

Because a vehicle’s safe driving operation most likely will not be impacted due to faults that store a P0987 code, this code is not considered a potentially serious code. When this code appears, it is recommended to take your vehicle to your local service center or mechanic for repair and diagnosis as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the P0987 code?

Several repairs can fix a P0987 trouble code and include:

• Repair any damaged or shorted, open, or loose wiring or connectors
• Fill the transmission fluid to manufacturer recommended levels
• Perform a transmission fluid service
• Rebuild the transmission if internal components were damaged and clutch debris is located in transmission pan
• Replace damaged or defective fluid pressure sensor
• Clear all codes, test-drive the vehicle, and rescan to see if any codes reappear

Need help with a P0987 code?

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