P0897 code meaning
Transmission Fluid Deteriorated
What P0897 means
Allison's 'Prognostics' in its fourth and fifth generation controls (1000 to 4000 series, buses and trucks, from 2009) has no fluid quality sensor: the gearbox module calculates. No car maker is known to use these codes. Its oil life monitor counts down the remaining fluid life from operating hours, distance, shifts and load factors such as fluid temperature, open converter and retarder use. With little life remaining, TRANS SERVICE shows for two minutes after every start; if the change and reset do not follow within a set period, CHECK TRANS lights and P0897 becomes active. Correct calculation assumes approved fluid (TES 295/668).
P0897 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0897
- CHECK TRANS lamp on
- TRANS SERVICE or wrench indicator after each start beforehand
- Driving usually normal
Common causes of P0897
- Most likelyFluid change interval exceeded
- PossibleFluid changed without resetting the oil life monitor
- PossibleHeavy duty (heat, stop-and-go, retarder) shortens calculated life
- Less likelyPrognostics disabled afterwards (Allison special case)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission fluid filterTransmission fluidTransmission control module
What each part of P0897 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. |
| 97 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0897 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 P0897
What does P0897 mean?
P0897 means "Transmission Fluid Deteriorated". Allison's 'Prognostics' in its fourth and fifth generation controls (1000 to 4000 series, buses and trucks, from 2009) has no fluid quality sensor: the gearbox module calculates. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0897?
P0897 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P0897 fail an emissions test?
P0897 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 P0897 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0897 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.