P0868 code meaning
Transmission Fluid Pressure Low
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P0868 means
P0867 to P0869 cover the system or line pressure of the gearbox as a whole: a pressure sensor measures it and the control module compares it with the pressure it commands. Faults of the sensor circuit itself have their own codes (Chrysler 68RFE P0932 ff), the single switches A to H have theirs (P0840 ff). Thresholds are not published; the codes are documented in bulletins for the Ram 68RFE and for the Tremec dual clutch of Corvette C8 and Maserati MC20. P0868 means the measured pressure stays below target. Chrysler calls it 'Line Pressure Low' on the 68RFE and fixed some cases with a software update; on 2024 Ram trucks it came with P0841 from a failed rear thrust washer. On the Corvette a sticking pressure valve is typical. The module then commands maximum pressure.
P0868 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0868
- Transmission warning lamp or MIL on
- Slipping, delayed engagement
- Limp mode
- Overheating under load
Common causes of P0868
- Most likelyFluid level low, leak or clogged filter
- Most likelyPressure control valve or solenoid sticking from dirt
- PossibleInternal leakage or mechanical damage: thrust washer, seal rings, pump
- Less likelySoftware calibration of the target pressure
- Less likelyLine pressure sensor reading low
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission fluid pressure sensorTransmission pumpPressure control solenoidTransmission valve bodyTransmission fluid
What each part of P0868 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. |
| 68 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0868 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 P0868
What does P0868 mean?
P0868 means "Transmission Fluid Pressure Low". P0867 to P0869 cover the system or line pressure of the gearbox as a whole: a pressure sensor measures it and the control module compares it with the pressure it commands. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0868?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0868 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0868 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0868 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 P0868 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0868 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.