Gear Shift Position Circuit is defined as Gear Shift Position Circuit – Malfunction. This is a generic trouble code, meaning it applies to all vehicles equipped with the OBD-II system, especially those made since 1996 up to the present. Specifications on the definition, troubleshooting, and repairs, of course, vary from one make and model to another.

This error code means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has determined a problem with the gear shift position circuit. This is a case electrical error in the gear shift position circuit. This is stored when the PCM detects that the voltage that comes from the gear position sensor deviates too much from the specifications set by the manufacturer.

Other related error codes include:

  • Error Code P0915
  • Error Code P0916
  • Error Code P0917
  • Error Code P0918

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh shifting or inability to shift gears
  • Increase in fuel consumption

Possible Causes

  • Damaged or faulty wirings, connectors or components in the gear shift system
  • Blown fuses
  • Short to battery ground
  • Defective PCM (rare)

How to Check

Start the diagnosis by inspecting all the wirings and connectors related to the said components.

Then, clear the codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code comes back.

If the code comes back, download the freeze frame data and other stored codes for future diagnosis.

Next, use the digital volt-ohmmeter (DVOM) to test the voltage and ground signal at the gear shift position circuit.

If there are no detected voltage or ground, disconnect the PCM and other related control modules. Then, with the battery ground, conduct a continuity test of the gear shift position circuit.

If the code comes back after clearing, proceed on checking the shift shaft. See if it’s functioning properly.

Next, check the gear guide rail for damages.

If both components seem to be in good condition, you can suspect a faulty PCM.

Inspect the PCM. In many cases, it simply needs reprogramming.

Lastly, clear the code and reset the system to see if the code comes back.

How to Fix

  • Replacement of faulty wires or damaged components and connectors
  • Replacement of faulty gear shift position circuit
  • Replacement of damaged shift shaft
  • Replacement of damaged guide rail
  • Replacement or reprogramming of PCM (rare)

Since this code pertains to faulty shifting, it is important to fix this problem as soon as possible. Any delay in fixing this code could further damage the transmission.

The most common misdiagnosis in addressing this code is replacing the whole gear shift position system when the problem is just faulty wiring.