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P0900 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Clutch Actuator Circuit / Open". 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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This trouble code is defined as the clutch actuator circuit being open.
When the PCM (powertrain control module) detects an open circuit in the clutch actuator control circuit, it will log a P0900 code. The PCM is constantly monitoring the output voltage of the actuator as it engages and disengages the vehicle’s clutch. In order to change gears, the PCM has to send out a command to energize the clutch actuator so it releases the clutch. After that, actuators in the transmission disengage the current gear and engage the next one (whether higher or lower).
Some models use a solenoid-type device in their actuators to operate a specific kind of clutch that uses brake fluid. Others use pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, electronic sensors or some combination of these controlled by microprocessors. In any case, if this code gets reported, it’s because a circuit is left open so the PCM can’t engage a gear.
There are a number of reasons that could be behind the P0900 code:
The problem could also be that the PCM is faulty. However, this is incredibly rare and, if the PCM was reporting codes erroneously, they wouldn’t be accompanied by the symptoms mentioned below.
The main symptom of this trouble code is simply that the vehicle won’t engage a gear. However, the issue could also spread and affect other components. Aside from a Check Engine light, these symptoms may be present too:
A qualified mechanic will begin by using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve all the trouble codes that have been stored on a vehicle. They will then proceed to address any accompanying issues that may have come before P0900. Finally, they will need to do some combination of the following steps:
A common mistake that a lot of mechanics make is only addressing one of the above. They may fix the PCM terminal voltage problem and assume that’s the end of it when really the clutch actuator needs some attention too.
Another error is not using the OBD-II scanner because a seasoned mechanic may listen to the owner’s description of the problem and assume they know how to act. While they may address the P0900 problem, there could be others that played a role in it occurring in the first place and will do so all over again.
The code is serious insofar as the vehicle will be impossible to operate until the underlying problem gets fixed. It could also lead to a problem on the road, like the vehicle stalling out, leaving the owner stranded and in need of a tow. For this reason, even if the problem seems to go away after a minute, it’s really best to have a mechanic take a look ASAP.
To fix this problem, a mechanic will do some combination of the following:
In very rare scenarios, the PCM may need to be replaced.
As we covered earlier, there are a number of different actuators, so when addressing the P0900 code, it’s important to understand how it works and how its mechanics affect the rest of the vehicle.
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