P0990 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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Is the Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard? Are you experiencing engine stalling and not starting? Are you experiencing difficulty in shifting in between gears? All these are major indication towards transmission fluid pressure sensor problem, thus causing OBD code P0990 getting stored in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

OBD code P0990 is a Transmission Fluid Pressure sensor issue, and this code can also be set due to various mechanical issues like internal leaks, cracked or missing check balls in the valve body, low system operating pressure/main line pressure, stuck valve in the valve body.

When the shift occurs, the PCM/TCM receives this voltage signal to determine transmission operating pressure. This code is set if this "E" input does not match normal operating voltages stored in the PCM/TCM's memory and may also be due to internal mechanical issues inside the transmission.

What causes this problem with the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "E" Circuit High?

• Low transmission fluid
• Dirty transmission fluid
• Damaged or corroded wiring or related connectors and components
• Damaged or defective transmission fluid pressure sensor
• Damaged or defective transmission fluid pressure switch
• Damaged or defective transmission control module
• Damaged or defective ECM (rare)

1. Automatic Transmission Control Module - TCM can be faulty and transmit wrong voltage reading to the PCM thus causing performance issues. Buy and replace new TCM now!
2. Automatic Transmission Sensor - Sensor can also turn faulty but to mechanical failures that will affect the voltage signal being sent to the PCM/TCM. Thus, replace faulty sensor immediately.
3. Engine Control Module - OBD Error Code P0990 can also be due to faulty ECM. It’s better to get the faulty electricals replaced as soon as possible.
4. Powertrain Control Module - P0990 error code also relates to problems with the powertrain that is not able to generate response in time causing distorted engine timing. Find all the Powertrain related parts with us.
5. Diagnostic Tool - In order to detect the error, one needs high grade diagnostic tools. Visit us today to grab amazing deals.

Our main motive is to achieve customer satisfaction and that’s why we will help you to diagnose P0990 code by mentioning some major symptoms below:

Common Symptoms

• Check engine light illumination
• Transmission not transferring in or out of certain gears
• Engine stalling and not starting
• Starter captive with the vehicle in gear

Have a look at some ways with which you can correct the P0990 code:

• Check and refill transmission fluid as per manufacturer recommended levels
• Repair or replace damaged or corroded wiring and related electrical components
• Replace damaged or defective transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch E
• Check for TCM and PCM faults and repair as required

Don’t get tensed if you are still facing any of these issues as we care for our customers and that’s why we offer a good range of Transmission, Pressure Sensor, ECM, Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/switch, Transmission Fluid, Pressure Switch, Mechanical Transmission, PCM, Malfunction Indicator Light Gear, Transmission Connector, Transmission Wiring, Electrical Grease, TFPS Sensor Wiring Harness Connector, Digital Voltmeter, Turn Key, TCM, Transmission Fluid, Transmission Pan, Transmission Clutch and a lot more. We are sure that now all your issues would be resolved.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this P0990 fault code:

Begin the diagnosis with the power related fault code first, or with the multiple code diagnosis first, as this may be the reason for the P0990. First, locate the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch (TFPS) on your particular vehicle.

Then, visually inspect the connector and wiring and look for scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots or melted plastic. Carefully inspect the terminals inside the connector for burns or have a green tint indicating corrosion, and use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush for cleaning.

Clear the OBD codes, and see if P0990 code returns. If it does not, then the connections can most likely be problematic. Test the TFPS sensor and its associated circuits. With the Key Off, disconnect the electrical connector at the TFPS sensor, connect a digital voltmeter (DVOM) black lead to the ground or low reference terminal at the TFPS sensor wiring harness connector. The red lead of the Digital Voltmeter to the signal terminal at the TFPS sensor wiring harness connector is connected. Turn Key on Engine Off. Voltmeter should read either 12 volts or 5 volts. Wiggle the connections to see if they change. If the voltage is incorrect, the power or ground wire needs repairs, or replace the PCM/TCM.

Next, connect one lead of an ohmmeter to the signal terminal at the TFPS sensor and the other lead to the ground or low reference terminal at the sensor. Check on the resistance of the sensor to accurately test the resistance to pressure when there is no pressure applied to it. Wiggle the connector at the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch while monitoring the resistance. If the ohmmeter readings do not pass, TFPS might need replacement.

If PCM continues to get a P0990 error code, this most likely indicates a failed TFPS sensor, although a failed PCM/TCM could not be ruled out, nor could internal transmission malfunctions until the TFPS sensor had been replaced. Program or calibrate to the vehicle in order to correctly install TCM/PCM.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0990 Code

• Some of the common mistakes done while changing diagnosing the OBD code P0990 are:
• Not noticing the damaged or loosened wiring and circuit problems
• Signal circuit to the TFPS sensor open
• Short to voltage/ground in the signal circuit to the TFPS sensor
• Failed TFPS Sensor mainly due to Internal mechanical transmission issue
• Failed PCM/TCM that might require reprogramming