P273E code meaning
Gear Shift Control Module A Over Temperature
Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light
What P273E means
P273E is a condition code: the gear shift control module A – the shift-by-wire selector unit – reports that its internal temperature exceeds the safe limit. No manufacturer documents P273E or its threshold publicly. Heat in such a unit can come from outside, for example a console exposed to strong sun or a module mounted near the exhaust tunnel, or from inside, when driver stages for lock solenoids, motors or illumination draw too much current. Because a hot module may give wrong position data, it typically reduces its functions; the vehicle may refuse range changes or hold Park until the unit cools. A code that returns at normal temperatures suggests an internal defect, while one tied to heat waves points to cooling or mounting.
P273E at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P273E
- Selector warning, functions limited
- Range changes refused until the module cools
Common causes of P273E
- Most likelyInternal fault or overloaded output stage in the selector module
- PossibleHigh ambient or radiant heat at the module location
- Less likelyShorted lock solenoid or actuator driven by the module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Gear shift module a
What each part of P273E 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. |
| 3E | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P273E 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 P273E
What does P273E mean?
P273E means "Gear Shift Control Module A Over Temperature". P273E is a condition code: the gear shift control module A – the shift-by-wire selector unit – reports that its internal temperature exceeds the safe limit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P273E?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P273E the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P273E fail an emissions test?
P273E 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 P273E to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P273E clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.