Definition of Code P0922
Fault code P0922 detects an electrical problem with the forward shift actuator circuit.
What Does Code P0922 Mean?
Code P0922 is a standard OBD-II fault code that indicates a problem with the forward shift actuator circuit. The forward shift actuator is a crucial component of an automatic transmission, responsible for engaging the shift into a forward gear. When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) detects an abnormally low voltage reading from the actuator circuit, fault code P0922 is then recorded.
What Causes Code P0922?
Potential causes of fault code P0922 include:
- Faulty forward shift actuator
- Shorted wires, corroded connectors, or other damaged electrical components
- Faulty forward guide rail
- Faulty shift shaft
- Mechanical malfunctions in the internal transmission
- In rare cases, a faulty PCM, ECM, or transmission control module
What Are the Symptoms of Code P0922?
Code P0922 will typically be accompanied by a Check Engine light illuminated on the instrument cluster. It is also possible for the car to have difficulty shifting gears or be unable to shift into a higher gear. If a forward gear is engaged, the car will likely be drivable, but fuel efficiency will probably be reduced.
How Does a Mechanic Diagnose Code P0922?
Code P0922 should be diagnosed using an OBD-II fault code scanner. A trusted mechanic will use the scanner to view freeze frame data and assess the code. The mechanic will also check for any other fault codes. If multiple codes are present, they should be addressed in the order they appear. The codes will then be reset and the vehicle restarted so the technician can see if the code remains detected. Otherwise, it is likely a case of an intermittent error, or perhaps a mistakenly detected code.
If code P0922 persists after resetting, the mechanic will visually inspect the electrical components, replacing any wires, connectors, or fuses that are damaged or otherwise compromised. The forward shift actuator will then be inspected, followed by the shift shaft and the forward guide rail. If the problem is still not resolved, the mechanic will need to perform a more in-depth inspection of the transmission, PCM, ECM, and transmission control module.
Whenever a component is replaced, the mechanic should pause the inspection, reset the fault codes, and restart the vehicle to see if the code persists. This allows the technician to know as soon as code P0922 has been resolved.
Common Mistakes When Diagnosing Code P0922
The most frequently made diagnostic error with code P0922 comes from not following the OBD-II fault code diagnostic protocol. It is very important that the protocol is followed step by step so that mechanics can perform diagnostics and repairs effectively and efficiently.
It is quite common to overlook simple electrical repairs in favor of more complex and incorrect repairs.
How Severe Is Code P0922?
Vehicles with a P0922 fault code will sometimes be drivable, but may not be, due to the inability to access a forward gear. However, continuing to drive a vehicle that has an active P0922 code can lead to serious transmission damage, so inspection and repair should be scheduled as soon as possible.
What Repairs Can Fix Code P0922?
Potential repairs for fault code P0922 include:
- Replacing the forward shift actuator
- Replacing the system’s electrical components
- Replacing or repairing the forward guide rail
- Replacing or repairing the shift shaft
- In rare cases, replacing the PCM, ECM, or transmission control module