Definition of Code P0822
Code P0822 indicates a problem with the transmission range sensor. The position of the gear lever does not match the gear in which the vehicle is operating.
Code P0822 is often associated with fault codes P0820 and P0821.
What does code P0822 mean?
P0822 is the generic OBD-II code for a problem with the range in which an automatic transmission operates. The transmission range sensor is the sensor that transmits critical information to the powertrain control module about the gear ratio the transmission is intended to operate in efficiently. To do this, the vehicle also relies on data from the vehicle speed sensor and the torque converter solenoid.
If, for any reason, the data from the sensors indicates that the transmission is not operating in the correct gear, code P0822 will be triggered.
What causes code P0822?
The incorrect transmission range code can be triggered for several reasons:
Misadjusted transmission range sensor
Broken or faulty range sensor
Corroded or broken wiring
Wires not properly placed around the transmission range sensor
Loose sensor retaining bolts
What are the symptoms of code P0822?
Once code P0822 is triggered, the Check Engine light illuminates on the vehicle’s dashboard. The transmission may struggle to shift up or down. When the transmission shifts from one gear to another, the changes may be abrupt and make the car feel like it’s driving rougher. These transmission issues can lead to decreased fuel economy.
How does a mechanic diagnose code P0822?
A qualified technician will first use a diagnostic scanner to read the engine’s real-time OBD-II fault codes. The mechanic can use this tool to see exactly when the code was first set and get an idea of what caused it. The technician will then reset the codes and restart the engine. They will also take the vehicle for a road test to see if and when the fault code triggers again. It’s possible that a minor electrical issue causes the code to trigger and there is no permanent problem with the transmission.
If the code is triggered during the test, the mechanic will first check the area around the gear lever and the transmission range sensor for signs of damaged or corroded wiring that could interfere with the signal reaching the powertrain control module.
Common mistakes when diagnosing code P0822
Often, when there’s a problem with the transmission range sensor, the sensor is simply replaced. This can be wasteful, as most cases of code P0822 can be resolved by properly adjusting the transmission range sensor. Other times, the code is triggered due to issues with surrounding parts and circuits.
How severe is code P0822?
Code P0822 will not prevent the engine from starting, and it cannot stop the engine while it’s running. In the worst case, code P0822 will cause the automatic transmission to go into “limp mode” and significantly reduce performance. Since this code can seriously impair the proper functioning of the vehicle, it is moderately severe and should be diagnosed as soon as possible when it appears.
What repairs can fix code P0822?
The most common repairs to resolve code P0822 are: * Repairing or replacing damaged or corroded wiring around the transmission and specifically around the transmission range sensor * Replacing or adjusting the transmission range sensor * Repairing or replacing wiring in and around the powertrain control module * Repairing or replacing electrical connections in the gear lever mechanism
Additional considerations regarding code P0822
Code P0822 only indicates a gear lever position problem in vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. If the code appears only intermittently, the issue may be an electrical problem that will take longer to diagnose properly. No diagnosis can be established until a code is triggered after previous codes have been cleared.
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