P0900 code meaning
Clutch A Actuator Control Circuit/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P09xx codes Check engine light
What P0900 means
Watches the drive circuit of the actuator that opens and closes clutch A in an automated or dual-clutch transmission. The code sets when the module detects an open circuit, so it cannot energise the actuator. Ford documents it for the DPS6 PowerShift gearbox in the Fiesta and Focus, where each dry clutch is moved by a three-phase electric motor with hall sensors; P0900 is the open-circuit check of the clutch A motor, alongside P0902 (short to ground) and P0903 (short to power). Ford program 20B23 for some 2016-2017 Focus cars lists P0900 with a lit check engine light and erratic shifts caused by failed clutch actuator motors. P090A is the same fault on clutch B.
P0900 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor1 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0900
- Check engine light on
- Erratic or missed shifts, vibration on take-off
- Transmission in limp mode, possibly no drive
Common causes of P0900
- Most likelyFailed clutch A actuator motor (open winding or internal fault)
- PossibleLoose connector or broken wire between TCM and actuator
- Less likelyFaulty motor driver inside the TCM
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Clutch a actuatorWiring harnessTCM
What each part of P0900 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 9 | Area: transmission. |
| 00 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0900 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 P0900
What does P0900 mean?
P0900 means "Clutch A Actuator Control Circuit/Open". Watches the drive circuit of the actuator that opens and closes clutch A in an automated or dual-clutch transmission. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0900?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0900 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0900 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0900 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 P0900 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 1 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0900 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.