P2786 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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The trouble code P2786 can be elucidated as Gear Shift Actuator Temperature Too High. The gear shift actuator temperature is being monitored by the transmission control module. This trouble code would be set by the TCM when the gear shift actuator temperature would not be as per the specifications set by the manufacturer.

This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle to another. If the car transmission is getting too hot, then the transmission control module would leave the transmission in neutral to prevent further internal damage and would set up the P2786 trouble code.

What causes this problem with the Gear Shift Actuator Temperature Too High?

• Malfunctioning gear shift actuator temperature sensor
• Gear shift actuator temperature sensor harness might be unlocked
• Gear shift actuator temperature sensor circuit might have bad electrical connection

1. Engine Control Module - Dead cells in batteries can cause a failure in the engine control module. Many times, a battery is left in the rig long after a cell has died. This would affect the grounding in the car battery.
2. Automatic Transmission Module - Faulty transmission module can cause problematic down shifts and upshifts, leading to stalling while accelerating or slowing down. This can also hamper many transmission system parts. Thus, replace it now!
3. Powertrain Control Module - If there are some faults in the PCM, then it may throw off the timing and fuel settings of the engine, which can negatively affect the performance. A flawed PCM may cause the vehicle to experience a reduction in fuel efficiency, power as well as acceleration.
4. Manual Transmission Shifter - Many a times the manual transmission shifter fails due to stretching. It is very common with automobiles which have manual transmissions as the driver moves the shifter more frequently. Buy top notch manual transmission shifter from us at economical prices.
5. Transmission Fluid Pump - Faulty transmission fluid pump can cause harsh shifts and audible transmission noise. This leads to decreased performance and chances of increased physical damages to the transmission components. Thus, replace it immediately.
6. Electronic Control Unit - Do you know that the poor performance or unexplained drops in fuel economy or efficiency are often associated to onboard car computer problems, or defective ECU issues?
7. Transmission Fluid Pump Harness - Damaged pump harness can lead to problematic transmission performance and can cause transmission slipping, rough shifts, fuel leakages and delayed engagements. Buy new fluid pump harness now!
8. Diagnostic Tools - Use factory grade diagnostic tools to resolve OBD code P2786 error. Buy new diagnostic tools and equipment for us.

You might be thinking that how would you diagnose these problems? We at Parts Avatar Canada would help you diagnose the major symptoms easily.

Common Symptoms

• Visibility in the check engine light
• Transmission might not shift correctly

Looking out for some ways with the help of which you can correct this fault code? Then you have arrived at the correct place. We are here to help you out, so you must check out the steps mentioned below as follows:

• It is essential to restore the flawed gear shift actuator temperature sensor
• Rehabilitate the defaults in the gear shift actuator temperature sensor harness
• Carefully adjust the faults in the gear shift actuator temperature sensor circuit
• Recondition the non-functioning PCM/ECM

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

• There is a clutch actuator temperature sensor in some modern automatic transmissions (usually a two-wire variable resistance sensor) which provides the powertrain control module with data. Since the torque converter is in motion, the sensor is mounted in the vicinity of the bell housing and an estimated clutch actuator temperature is programmed into the transmission controller or powertrain control module.
• There is a voltage wire in the sensor (typically it is a 5-volt reference signal) and a ground wire. The reference voltage wire is used by the powertrain control module to monitor temperature of the transmission. As clutch actuator temperature would increase, then the sensor resistance would decrease and reference voltage increases.
• When the torque converter would be cool, then the sensor resistance would be high, driving reference voltage to the PCM down. The PCM would receive input reference voltage readings as clutch actuator temperature and reacts accordingly. If clutch actuator temperature is a lot, a code is stored and a service engine soon lamp might start illuminating. If the torque converter over temp code is set and the engine is not overheating, then it is very likely that a low or inferior transmission fluid condition is present.
• To perform a thorough diagnosis, any leakage in the transmission should be repaired and the transmission should be filled with the proper amount and type of fluid (if the fluid smells really “burnt” and you are experienced enough to detect it, you may go ahead and condemn the transmission). The transmission should then be operated in the normal manner and it should be rechecked once again.
• However, leaks that originate from the front seal (behind the torque converter) will likely need removal of the transmission, at which time you may want to consider a transmission rebuild if the mileage dictates. If the transmission appears to be in perfect condition and doesn’t appear to be overheating, suspect a defective transmission temperature sensor.
• There would be a need of a scanner or code reader, a digital volt ohmmeter, and access to a manufacturer’s wiring schematic to easily diagnose this error code. You can always start your diagnosis with a visual inspection of all wiring and connectors. Repair or restore the quirky, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wiring, connectors, and components as per the requirement. The entire system should be retested after repairs are completed to ensure success. If all system wiring, connectors, and components as well as the fuses appear to be in good working condition, then connect the scanner (or code reader) to the diagnostic connector and record all stored codes and freeze frame data.
• This information can be very helpful in diagnosing intermittent conditions that may have contributed to this code being stored. After the codes should be cleared up, and then operate the vehicle to see if the code returns. If the code fails to immediately return, then it might indicate an intermittent condition. Intermittent conditions can prove to be quite challenging to diagnose and in extreme cases may have to be allowed to worsen before a correct diagnosis can be made. Continue by unplugging the electrical connector from the clutch actuator temperature sensor and testing for reference voltage.
• This is generally 5-volts but you can always consult your manufacturer’s service manual to be sure. If there is a 5-volt signal present with the ignition turned to the run position; inspect the sensor ground wire. If both the reference signal and the ground signal are present, check the sensor resistance utilizing the manufacturer’s temperature to resistance chart.
• You can always compare your findings to the manufacturer’s specifications and restore the sensor if it fails to comply. If the sensor and voltage at the sensor are within acceptable specifications, then disconnect the PCM electrical connector and check the circuit continuity and resistance between the sensor and the PCM.
• Repair or replace system circuitry and components as per the requirement and retest the system. Should all system circuitry and sensors check out, suspect a defective PCM but keep in mind that PCM failure is rare and PCM replacement might need reprogramming.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P2786 Code

• Transmission might start failing internally
• The transmission control module (TCM) might need to get calibrated