What Does It Mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Dodge, Ford, Smart, Land Rover, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Jeep, Mercedes, Toyota, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
The OBD-II fault code P080A and related codes P0806, P0807, P0808, and P0809 are associated with the clutch position sensor and/or its circuit. This circuit is monitored by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or the Transmission Control Module (TCM), depending on the specific vehicle.
The purpose of the clutch position sensor circuit is to monitor the status of the clutch in a manual transmission. This process is accomplished by reading the output voltage from the clutch position sensor, which indicates when the clutch is engaged. In most cases, the clutch position sensor is typically a basic on/off switch mounted near the clutch pedal on the bracket. A constant voltage is usually present on one side of the switch, and the contacts are closed when the clutch is engaged, transferring the voltage to the starter or starter solenoid. This basic circuit and switch prevent the engine from starting before the clutch is engaged.
When the PCM or TCM detects that the clutch position is not “learned,” the P080A code will be set, and the check engine light or transmission warning light will illuminate.
How Severe Is This DTC?
The severity of this code is normally moderate, but P080A can be severe if the vehicle starts with the clutch disengaged, creating a safety issue.
What Are Some of the Symptoms of the Code?
Symptoms of a P080A fault code may include:
Engine does not start
Engine starts without engaging the clutch
Transmission warning light illuminated
Check engine light illuminated
What Are Some Common Causes of the Code?
Causes
of this P080A code may include:
Clutch position sensor not calibrated
Faulty clutch position sensor
Defective or damaged wiring
Loose or faulty control module ground strap
Corroded, damaged, or loose connector
Faulty PCM or TCM
What Are the Troubleshooting Steps for P080A?
The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and powertrain. In some circumstances, this can save a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.
The second step is to locate the clutch position sensor switch and look for obvious physical damage. Perform a thorough visual inspection to check that the associated wiring does not have obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burn marks. Then, check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This process should include all wiring connectors and connections to the clutch position sensor switch, PCM, starter, and starter solenoid. Consult vehicle-specific technical data to see if a fuse or fusible link is incorporated into the circuit.
Advanced Steps
Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. The specific technical data will include troubleshooting charts and the proper sequence to follow to help you make an accurate diagnosis.
You may need to follow a clutch position learning or calibration procedure to repair this code.
Voltage Checks
When the clutch is disengaged, there should be proper 12 volts on one side of the sensor. When the clutch is engaged, you should have voltage on both sides of the sensor. The starter solenoid or starter should also be powered, depending on the configuration.
If this process identifies a missing power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check the integrity of the wiring, connectors, and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced. A continuity test between the PCM or TCM control and the chassis will confirm the service level of the ground straps and wires. The presence of resistance indicates a loose connection or possible corrosion.
What Are the Common Repairs for This Code?
Cleaning corrosion from connectors
Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
Replacing a blown fuse or fusible link (if applicable)
Repairing or replacing faulty ground straps
Reprogramming or replacing the PCM or TCM
Common Mistake
Replacing the starter, starter solenoid, or a control module when a faulty clutch position sensor or damaged wiring is the cause of this issue.
I hope the information in this article has been helpful in guiding you in the right direction to correct the issue with your P080A clutch position fault code. This article is strictly informational, and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.