P273D code meaning
Gear Shift Control Module A Supply Voltage High
Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light
What P273D means
P273D is the over-voltage counterpart of P273C: the gear shift control module A, the electronic selector of a by-wire gear selection, registers a supply above its permitted maximum. No manufacturer documents P273D publicly or names the limit. Excess voltage typically comes from the charging side – a regulator that has failed, jump-starting with a 24 V source or a booster left on – and may also be misread if the module's own measurement drifts. Audi gives an example of the latter on 2019–21 A6/A7 models: the selector lever J587 judged its voltage too strictly, logged faults and blocked range selection until a software update. Modules usually protect themselves by ignoring inputs, so expect a selector warning and a gearbox that holds its current range.
P273D at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P273D
- Selector or gearbox warning in the cluster
- Range selection blocked
- Other over-voltage faults in several modules
Common causes of P273D
- Most likelyAlternator voltage regulator overcharging
- PossibleJump-start or charger delivering excessive voltage
- Less likelySelector module misjudging its supply (software or hardware)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Gear shift module aCharging system
What each part of P273D 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. |
| 3D | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P273D 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 P273D
What does P273D mean?
P273D means "Gear Shift Control Module A Supply Voltage High". P273D is the over-voltage counterpart of P273C: the gear shift control module A, the electronic selector of a by-wire gear selection, registers a supply above its permitted maximum. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P273D?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P273D the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P273D fail an emissions test?
P273D 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 P273D to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P273D clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.