P255A code meaning
PTO Speed Selector Sensor/Switch 2 Circuit/Open
What P255A means
P255A belongs to the second PTO speed selector input, which lets the operator call up a further preset working speed in addition to selector 1. The controller finds no valid state on this line: a wire is broken, a connector is off, or the switch contact never closes. A real example of such a second input is the VSIM module of 2017 Ram chassis cabs, where grounding the PTO idle speed 2 wire (W542) selects Remote RPM Preset 2; it overrides preset 3 but gives way to preset 1. With that wire open, the second preset simply cannot be reached while preset 1 still works. No manufacturer publishes P255A. P254A is the same fault on selector 1; P255B to P255E describe the other failure types of selector 2.
P255A at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P255A
- Second preset speed unavailable
- Selector 1 presets still work
Common causes of P255A
- Most likelyBroken wire between selector 2 and the module
- PossibleUpfitter connector for selector 2 not mated
- PossibleSelector 2 contact no longer closes
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Pto speed selector 2Wiring harness
What each part of P255A 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. |
| 5A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P255A 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 P255A
What does P255A mean?
P255A means "PTO Speed Selector Sensor/Switch 2 Circuit/Open". P255A belongs to the second PTO speed selector input, which lets the operator call up a further preset working speed in addition to selector 1. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P255A?
P255A does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P255A fail an emissions test?
P255A 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 P255A to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P255A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.