P073E code meaning
Unable to Engage Reverse
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P073E means
P073E means reverse is commanded but not reached. Two uses are documented. With electronic gear selection (shift-by-wire) GM compares the commanded range with the actual range reported by the transmission and flags it if reverse is not reached within 1.8–3 s in the selector or diesel engine module, or 10 s in gasoline engine modules, after two trips; GM bulletins name a range actuator centred wrongly (LaCrosse, XT5) and software after an over-the-air update (2025 Equinox/Terrain). On dual-clutch transmissions (2020–23 Corvette, Maserati MC20) it means the reverse gear cannot be engaged. Stuck in reverse is P072B, slip in reverse P0736.
P073E at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.3 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P073E
- No reverse, or R not accepted
- Transmission warning, check engine light after two trips (GM)
- Display shows R but the vehicle does not reverse
Common causes of P073E
- Most likelyRange actuator or park module centred wrongly or faulty (shift-by-wire)
- PossibleModule software (e.g. after an over-the-air update)
- PossibleRange sensor reports the wrong actual range
- PossibleReverse clutch or brake, valve or shift fork (DCT)
- Less likelyFluid level or system pressure
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission range selectorTransmission range sensorShift fork actuatorTransmission control module
What each part of P073E means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 7 | Area: transmission. |
| 3E | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P073E 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 P073E
What does P073E mean?
P073E means "Unable to Engage Reverse". P073E means reverse is commanded but not reached. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P073E?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P073E the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P073E fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P073E is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P073E to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P073E clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.