P0805 code meaning
Clutch Position Sensor A Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P0805 means
The J2012 family 'Clutch Position Sensor A' (P0805 circuit, P0806 range/performance, P0807 low, P0808 high, P0809 intermittent, P080A not learned) covers the position of a clutch – the pedal of a manual gearbox, the clutch actuator of an automated or dual-clutch gearbox, or a clutch inside an automatic. P0805 is the general circuit fault. Uses differ: Nissan's 2022 Pathfinder with its nine-speed automatic stores it in the transmission module, lights the MIL and disables idle stop ('Idle Stop System Fault'), fixed with new software. Ford's DPS6 dual-clutch gearbox uses it for the module-internal chip that drives the clutch A motor, so a control unit fault rather than an outside sensor. GM reads its clutch pedal sensor under P0806–P0808 only.
P0805 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0805
- Check engine lamp on
- Idle stop disabled ('Idle Stop System Fault')
- Jerky driving or harsh clutch engagement (dual clutch)
Common causes of P0805
- Most likelyClutch position sensor faulty (pedal or actuator)
- PossibleConnector or harness open, corroded or shorted
- PossibleTransmission module software (Nissan)
- PossibleControl unit internal fault (Ford DPS6: clutch motor driver)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Clutch position sensorSensor wiringTransmission control module
What each part of P0805 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 8 | Area: transmission. |
| 05 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0805 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 P0805
What does P0805 mean?
P0805 means "Clutch Position Sensor A Circuit". The J2012 family 'Clutch Position Sensor A' (P0805 circuit, P0806 range/performance, P0807 low, P0808 high, P0809 intermittent, P080A not learned) covers the position of a clutch – the pedal of a manual gearbox, the clutch actuator of an automated or dual-clutch gearbox, or a clutch inside an automatic. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0805?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0805 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0805 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0805 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 P0805 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0805 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.