P0872 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C Circuit Low

Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront


Cost of diagnosing the P0872 code

P0872 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C 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.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

SCHEDULE P0872 DIAGNOSTIC Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

P0872 code definition

A P0872 trouble code refers to a problem detected by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the fluid pressure within the transmission. Some vehicle PCMs place the transmission into Limp-in mode in addition to storing a code and illuminating the Check Engine light. Related trouble codes include a P0870, P0871, P0873, and P0874 code.

What the P0872 code means

A P0872 trouble code means that the transmission fluid pressure has exceeded or fallen below limits set by the manufacturer.

What causes the P0872 code?

A transmission leak causing a low fluid condition is one cause of a P0872 trouble code. Additional causes include a defective high pressure pump, a malfunctioning transmission temperature sensor, an overheating engine, a slipping or malfunctioning transmission, or a faulty PCM.

What are the symptoms of the P0872 code?

Some common symptoms of a P0872 trouble code include the smell of overheated transmission fluid, sometimes accompanied by smoke. In addition to these signs, the transmission might also slip or fail to engage.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0872 code?

To diagnose a P0872 trouble code, the mechanic needs to gather certain tools, including an OBD-II scanner, a manufacturer's wiring diagram, and a digital volt/ohmmeter. Once they have the proper tools, the mechanic can then proceed to diagnose the trouble code by taking the following steps:

  • Using the manufacturer's wiring diagram, carefully inspect the PCM wiring, connectors, and related components.
  • Examine the transmission fluid for any abnormalities or burnt smell. The mechanic should also look for any leaks.
  • If abnormalities or a burnt smell are detected, remove the transmission pan and look for any debris that might signify damage.
  • After making the necessary repairs, clear the P0872 trouble code and test the system to see if the code returns.
  • Connect the OBD-II scanner to the diagnostic connector and downloading any stored trouble codes or freeze frame data.
  • Once the necessary repairs have been made, the mechanic should fill the transmission with fluid, clear the code, and then start the vehicle, allowing it to reach a normal operating temperature. Test drive the vehicle to see if the trouble code returns.
  • Unplug the electrical connector from the transmission temperature sensor and test it for reference voltage and ground signal using the volt/ohmmeter.
  • If both are present, test the resistance of the sensor and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • The mechanic should also check the vehicle's fuses to make sure none are blown.
  • If all of the circuits and components check out, disconnect the PCM electrical connector and test the continuity and resistance between the PCM and the transmission temperature sensor.
  • Finally, the mechanic should then clear the code and re-test the system to see if the code returns.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0872 code

When diagnosing and repairing a P0872 trouble code, mistakes comonly made by mechanics range from fixing a transmission leak while not realizing the low fluid condition has damaged the transmission internally to rebuilding the transmission when unnecessary just because the transmission overheated.

How serious is the P0872 code?

When a vehicle PCM stores a P0872 trouble code it is important to have the problem diagnoses and fixed as soon as possible to prevent further potential transmission damage.

What repairs can fix the P0872 code?

The mechanic should make repairs to the transmission in the following order:

Need help with a P0872 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

OBD-II
trouble codes
P0872

No more waiting rooms! Our mechanics will come to you to diagnose and fix the P0872 code.

SCHEDULE P0872 DIAGNOSTIC
Get a $50 credit for the follow-up repair

Recent Check Engine Light is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(8600)

Rating Summary
8017
273
65
46
199
8017
273
65
46
199
 at YourMechanic

Brandon

9 years of experience
133 reviews
Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
Brandon showed up ahead of schedule, was very personable and diagnosed my problems. He also scheduled my next appointments which will be with him.
 at YourMechanic

William

23 years of experience
33 reviews
William
23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
Arrived early which was great. William was courteous, and attentive to the issue. Even though it took several attempts I'm so happy he was determined to fix it and he did!
 at YourMechanic

Dan

40 years of experience
1080 reviews
Dan
40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Mr. Dan Barber was quite patient, courteous and quite knowledgeable. From my observation, Mr. Barber appears to be quite professional.
 at YourMechanic

Christopher

9 years of experience
120 reviews
Christopher
9 years of experience
Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


More related articles

P0481 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cooling Fan 2 Control Circuit Malfunction
P0481 means a problem with the control circuit for cooling fan 2. Some causes are faulty cooling fan or damage to the wire connecting the cooling fan.
P2763 OBD-II Trouble Code: Torque Converter Clutch Press Control Solenoid Control Circuit High
P2763 means a problem from the torque converter clutch pressure control caused by an electrical issue, transmission fluid problems or a bad solenoid.
P3484 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 11 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
P3484 code means cylinder 11 was deactivated during certain driving conditions due to low oil pressure, engine condition, or electrical components.

Related questions

Truck is running rough engine light. Keep call code
The catalyst may give off a rotten egg smell if you are running rich from an engine misfire. You will need to have the two cylinders that are misfiring diagnosed to see if they have low compression or the valves...
Engine not firing
Hello, thanks for writing in about your Ford F-150. You will need to scan the computer to see if there is codes for the crankshaft (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/crankshaft-position-sensor-replacement) or camshaft sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/camshaft-position-sensor-replacement). If you'd like to have this fixed, consider YourMechanic, as...
The car starts, but when I hit the gas the check engine light blinks & it feels like I don't get much power, sometimes smell gas.
Hello. A flashing Check Engine Light is an indicator that the computer has detected an issue with the vehicle's engine management system that could potentially cause harm to the emissions system. Continuing to drive with a flashing Check Engine Light...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com