P07A3 code meaning
Transmission Friction Element A Stuck On
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P07A3 means
Each friction element (clutch or brake) has three functional codes: slip while commanded locked (P079A ff), performance/stuck off – it does not apply or applies too weakly – and stuck on – it does not release. GM's hybrid transmissions use only the stuck-on codes: when a clutch should release, the module expects slip to build and flags it if slip stays near zero – the Two-Mode SUVs (2008–13) at 80 rpm or less for 4.5 s with more than 320–350 Nm on the clutch, after two trips; the Volt Gen 1 and ELR when clutch 1 shows no slip while released ('applied or welded'), three attempts, after one trip; Volt Gen 2, Malibu Hybrid and CT6 plug-in by comparing actual slip with the target release profile, after one trip. Ford's DPS6 uses P07A3 for clutch A 'functionally stuck on'.
P07A3 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P07A3
- Check engine light or 'service hybrid system' message
- Jolt or tie-up on mode or gear changes
- Engine stalls or drags when stopping
- Limp mode with reduced power
Common causes of P07A3
- Most likelyClutch A stuck, welded or piston hanging
- PossibleValve or spool sticking in the applied position
- PossibleContaminated fluid (debris)
- Less likelyModule software
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission clutchesTransmission valve bodyHybrid control module
What each part of P07A3 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. |
| A3 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P07A3 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 P07A3
What does P07A3 mean?
P07A3 means "Transmission Friction Element A Stuck On". Each friction element (clutch or brake) has three functional codes: slip while commanded locked (P079A ff), performance/stuck off – it does not apply or applies too weakly – and stuck on – it does not release. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P07A3?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P07A3 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P07A3 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P07A3 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 P07A3 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P07A3 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.