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P2794 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Gear Shift Direction Circuit 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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If the P2794 has been stored by your vehicle, it means that the PMC has detected a problem with the gear shift direction circuit for a specific gear lever direction or position.
The transmission gear shift direction sensor is responsible for inputting data to the PCM. There, the PCM uses it to calculate fuel delivery strategy, engine RPM, and engine timing, amongst other things. This code is only possible in vehicles that are equipped with dual clutch adaptive transmissions, manual transmissions, automated manual transmissions and automatic transmissions.
The PCM can receive an input that would cause a P2794 code from transmission shift solenoids, vehicle speed sensors, the torque converter lock-up solenoid and other types of sensors. When the PCM is signaled that the vehicle is operating in an incorrect transmission shifter range or at the wrong direction, a P2794 code is stored and a Check Engine Light comes on.
There are a few reasons that your car may store a P2794 code:
By far, the most common reason would be that your transmission shifter components are worn or defective
A defective range sensor
Wires or electrical connectors that are corroded, shorted, opened or otherwise damaged
As the code related to a problem involving your gears, it makes sense that most of the symptoms that are most noticeable also affect this same area. For example, you can expect that shifting will be harsh or even difficult to do. In fact, you may even find it impossible to shift at all. Another problem would be reduced fuel efficiency.
Your mechanic will use a gear shift direction sensor to find which gear your vehicle’s transmission is in at any given interval. Then, they’ll most likely look for any corroded, shorted, open or damaged cords, connectors or other components related to the system.
If everything is in working order, they’ll connect a scanner to the diagnostic connector and take down all stored trouble codes and freeze frame data. Then they’ll do a test drive to see if the codes return.
Should the problem persist, they’ll move on to replace any circuitry or connectors that don’t coincide with the manufacturer’s specifications.
The transmission gear shift direction sensor is often replaced in error when simply adjusting it would have fixed the problem causing the code.
Put simply, your vehicle will not work correctly until the underlying problem causing the code is addressed. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s dangerous, but if you keep driving when your gears aren’t working correctly, expect that you’ll be doing a lot of costly damage to your vehicle. The price of your reduced fuel efficiency could really add up too.
To fix your vehicle, your mechanic will do one of the following:
Replace or repair any electrical components that have been compromised (e.g. wiring, connectors, etc.)
Check for corroded areas that may be affecting the gear shift
Test drive the vehicle and retest the system to ensure the fix was successful
If you recently had your transmission repaired, there’s a chance that your range sensor wasn’t correctly readjusted, which would explain why your vehicle is now storing this code. This is important to keep in mind if the problem occurs shortly after your transmission was worked on. Another common issue to watch out for is excessive corrosion affecting the sensor connector.
If your vehicle isn’t operating correctly because of a P2794 code, YourMechanic can help. You can either call us at 1-800-701-6230 to talk with one of our service advisors or, if you prefer, let us know how we can help by filling out this form. Our mechanic can meet you at your home or place of business – whichever is most convenient – and get you back on the road in no time.
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