P0914 OBD-II Trouble Code: Gear Shift Position Circuit

P0914 code definition

When a vehicle stores a P0914 trouble code, it indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a problem with the gear shift position circuit. Related codes include a P0915, P0916, P0917, and P0918 trouble code.

What the P0914 code means

A P0914 trouble code denotes an electrical error in the gear shift position circuit. When the voltage coming from the gear shift position sensor varies too much according to the manufacturer's specifications, a P0914 trouble code is stored and the check engine light illuminates.

What causes the P0914 code?

The most common reason for the storage of a P0914 trouble code is damaged or faulty wiring, connectors, or components within the gear shift position system. Blown fuses, a short to the battery ground, and a faulty PCM can also cause the storage of this code.

What are the symptoms of the P0914 code?

Symptoms of a P0914 trouble code include harsh shifting and, in some cases, the inability to shift gears. Another common side effect of a P0914 trouble code is a reduction of the fuel efficiency in the vehicle that has stored the code.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0914 code?

To diagnose and repair a P0914 trouble code a mechanic needs to use an advanced scanner and a digital volt/ohm meter. Using this equipment, the mechanic needs to perform the following:

• Thoroughly inspect all wiring, connectors, and components for damage.
• Clear the code and test drive the vehicle to see if the code returns.
• If the code returns, download all of the freeze frame data and any stored codes for use in further diagnosis.
• Using a digital volt/ohm meter, the mechanic should next test the voltage and ground signal at the gear shift position circuit.
• If no voltage or ground signal are detected, the mechanic should first disconnect the PCM and other related control modules. Then they should test the continuity of the gear shift position circuit with the battery ground.
• If, the code returns after clearing it, the mechanic should inspect the shift shaft to see if it is operating properly.
• In addition, the mechanic should also inspect the gear guide rail to see if it is damaged.
• If both of these components look okay, the mechanic should suspect a faulty PCM.
• The mechanic should inspect and test the PCM to see if it is bad or just needs reprogramming.
• Finally, the mechanic should clear the code and retest the system to see if the code returns.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0914 code

Mechanics diagnosing and fixing a P0914 trouble code most commonly make the mistake of replacing the entire gear shift position system when the problem was with a much less expensive and easier-to-replace electrical component, connector, or wiring. In addition, failure to clear codes as they are stored can result in a failure to fix the problem causing the code, resulting in its eventual return.

How serious is the P0914 code?

A stored P0914 trouble code could only cause trouble with shifting, though in some cases the vehicle gear shifter might refuse to work at all. That is why it is imperative that you have a mechanic address the P0914 trouble code when it is first stored. In addition, conditions causing the storage of a P0914 trouble code can further damage the transmission if not diagnosed and treated.

What repairs can fix the P0914 code?

To repair a P0914 trouble code, a mechanic should take the following steps after diagnosis:

• Replace any defective or damaged wiring, connectors, or components.
• Replace the gear shift position circuit if its is faulty.
• Replace the shift shaft if it is damaged and is not working properly.
• Replace the gear guide rail if damaged.
• Replace the PCM if bad. The mechanic also needs to reprogram the PCM once installed.

Need help with a P0914 code?

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