C0093 code meaning
4WD/AWD Power Transfer Unit Temperature Sensor
What C0093 means
Covers the temperature sensor of the power transfer unit, which lets the controller protect the AWD clutch from overheating. Sustained torque transfer, for example prolonged slip or towing, heats the clutch pack and its fluid; the controller reads this sensor and reduces or opens the coupling when temperature climbs too high. This code is set when the sensor signal is out of range, open, shorted or implausible. AWD coupling patents describe electronically controlled clutches whose controller monitors operating conditions, including temperature, to protect the hardware. A fault removes thermal protection and can force a safe default such as reduced engagement, and sets the AWD/4WD warning lamp; braking and ABS are unaffected. The entry follows the SAE J2012 generic definition and AWD coupling thermal management.
C0093 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C0093
- AWD/4WD warning lamp on
- Reduced AWD engagement for protection
- No thermal protection of the coupling
Common causes of C0093
- Most likelyTemperature sensor out of range or failed
- PossibleHarness or connector fault
- Less likelyGenuine clutch overheating event
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Ptu temp sensor
What each part of C0093 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 93 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0093 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about C0093
What does C0093 mean?
C0093 means "4WD/AWD Power Transfer Unit Temperature Sensor". Covers the temperature sensor of the power transfer unit, which lets the controller protect the AWD clutch from overheating. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0093?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C0093 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C0093 fail an emissions test?
C0093 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is C0093 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0093 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.