P274D code meaning
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor C Circuit High
Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light
What P274D means
P274D is set when the sensor C signal climbs above its highest permitted value. On a thermistor supplied with 5 V via a resistor, that happens when the circuit opens – a broken wire, a corroded or unplugged connector – or when the signal line touches a voltage source; the display would then show fluid colder than any real climate produces. No manufacturer documents P274D publicly. For the main sensor, Ford's 2012 strategy uses above 4.6 V, and GM's 2023 dual-clutch module above 4745 mV for its sump sensor, both as electrical limits rather than temperatures. Until the fault is cleared the transmission may keep a cold-fluid strategy with delayed converter lock-up or more cautious clutch control.
P274D at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P274D
- Warning lamp
- Temperature C shows an extremely cold value
- Late converter lock-up or cautious shifting
Common causes of P274D
- Most likelyOpen circuit in sensor C lead or connector
- PossibleSignal lead shorted to voltage
- Less likelySensor C open internally
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Trans fluid temp sensor cWiring harness
What each part of P274D 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. |
| 4D | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P274D 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 P274D
What does P274D mean?
P274D means "Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor C Circuit High". P274D is set when the sensor C signal climbs above its highest permitted value. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P274D?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P274D fail an emissions test?
P274D 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 P274D to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P274D 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.