Error Code P0933 is defined as Hydraulic Pressure Sensor Range/Performance. 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. Of course, specifications on the definition, troubleshooting, and repairs vary from one make and model to another.

To shift gears in line with the driving conditions, the powertrain control module (PCM) must moderate the hydraulic pressure in the transmission. It does so with the help of pressure control solenoid(s). However, it can only do so through data coming from the hydraulic pressure sensor. Therefore, if this said sensor is not performing as it should or outside its expected range, the Error Code P0933 will be registered.

Common Symptoms

  • Unusual firm shift during low RPM
  • Unusual soft shift when under load at high RPM
  • Low acceleration power (since the vehicle starts at 2nd gear rather than 1st)
  • Engine unable to upshift at speed (PCM locked out the high gears)

Possible Causes

  • Faulty wires or connectors (caused by damage or corrosion)
  • Faulty fuses
  • Defective transmission pressure sensor
  • PCM/TCM problem (rare)

How to Check

Start the diagnosis by connecting the OBD-II error code scanner to retrieve freeze frame data of the code and other trouble codes. If there are multiple codes present, address the codes in the order they appear on the scanner.

Next, reset the codes and restart the vehicle to see if the code comes back. If the code does not return, the problem is either an intermittent error or triggered erroneously.

If the code comes back, proceed with the diagnosis by inspecting the electrical component system further. Check for any damages on the connectors, fuses, and wires. Repair and replace as needed.

Next, check the ground voltage. If there is no ground found, then proceed on checking the hydraulic pressure sensor.

Make sure to reset the trouble code and restart the vehicle each time you replace a component. This will help determine whether the repair has fixed the problem or not.

How to Fix

  • Repair or replacement of faulty or broken connectors, fuses, and wires
  • Replacement of defective hydraulic pressure sensor
  • Replacement of defective PCM or TCM (rare)

Since the vehicle’s PCM cannot determine the hydraulic pressure sensor, the transmission’s performance is compromised, causing the vehicle to suffer greatly. In other words, this code is a serious condition that needs attention as soon as possible.