P2544 code meaning
Torque Management Request Input Signal A
Powertrain system Generic code P25xx codes Check engine light
What P2544 means
P2544 concerns torque requests that another module, usually the transmission control module, sends to the engine module – for example to cut torque during a shift. GM's 2020 table 20OBDG04 checks each TCM message for a wrong protection value (16 of 20), a broken rolling counter (6 of 10), an increase request above 1,298 Nm (6 of 10) or the request type toggling too often (3 of 5), type B with two trips. GM's 2012 bulletin PIC4740C for 2006–2013 Cadillac ATS, CTS, SRX and STS with six-speed automatics traces P2544 with many U-codes, hard shifts and no-crank to loose pins in the transmission X1 connector. A GM engineering bulletin on the 2019–2022 Malibu 1.5 L turbo names it next to lost-communication codes; Ford's BOSS 302S list of 2014 has it without a lamp mark. P2545 is the plausibility fault.
P2544 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P2544
- Check engine light, often with several U-codes
- Harsh shifts or reduced engine power
- Multiple warning lamps, possibly no-crank
Common causes of P2544
- Most likelyLoose or unseated pins at the transmission connector
- PossibleData bus disturbance or failing gateway
- Less likelyTransmission module software or internal fault
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
CAN busTCMABS module
What each part of P2544 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| 44 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2544 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 P2544
What does P2544 mean?
P2544 means "Torque Management Request Input Signal A". P2544 concerns torque requests that another module, usually the transmission control module, sends to the engine module – for example to cut torque during a shift. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2544?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2544 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2544 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2544 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 P2544 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2544 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.