P273A code meaning
Transmission Friction Element G Apply Time Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light
What P273A means
P273A carries the apply-time test of P2700 to P2705 on to a seventh shift element, G. The controller measures how long element G needs from command to full engagement and stores the code if this time is implausibly long or short. Only gearboxes with more than six clutches and brakes need a letter G, and no manufacturer documents P273A publicly. Ford shows how the series is used: its 10R80 bulletins (from 21-2315 onward) list apply-time codes up to P2705 for element F and none beyond, and Ford's 2012 summary explains that a ratio check cannot tell a valve fault apart from other faults in that clutch circuit. CARB requires monitoring of automatic transmission controls. A slow G apply can mean worn plates, leaking piston seals or low pressure; the driver feels flare or harsh shifts.
P273A at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P273A
- Engine flare or harsh shift into gears using element G
- MIL lit, possibly with ratio codes
- Fail-safe gear operation
Common causes of P273A
- Most likelyLeaking piston seals in the apply circuit of element G
- PossiblePressure control or shift solenoid feeding element G sticking
- PossibleWorn plates or wrong clearance of element G
- Less likelyAdaptive shift values out of range after repair or software update
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Friction element gHydraulic control unitPressure control solenoid
What each part of P273A means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 7 | Area: transmission. |
| 3A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P273A 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 P273A
What does P273A mean?
P273A means "Transmission Friction Element G Apply Time Range/Performance". P273A carries the apply-time test of P2700 to P2705 on to a seventh shift element, G. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P273A?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P273A the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P273A fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P273A 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 P273A to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P273A 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.