P2790 code meaning
Gate Select Direction Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light
What P2790 means
P2790 is the basic circuit fault for the signal that tells the controller in which direction the selector mechanism is moving across the gate, that is sideways between the shift lanes of the H pattern. In automated manual gearboxes the select actuator or its sensor provides this information; on some shift-by-wire levers it comes from the lever itself, so the exact part depends on the manufacturer. A circuit code means the signal is missing or of the wrong type, for example an open wire or a dead sensor, rather than a value that is merely too low or too high (those are P2791 and P2792). No manufacturer documents P2790 publicly; CARB 13 CCR 1968.2 requires circuit checks for such gearbox inputs. Results range from refused gear changes to a vehicle that stays in one gear or will not pull away.
P2790 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2790
- Gear changes refused or gearbox stuck in one gear
- Vehicle may not move off from standstill
- Warning lamp with transmission message
Common causes of P2790
- Most likelyOpen wire or loose, corroded connector at the select sensor
- PossibleFailed select direction sensor or select actuator electronics
- Less likelyFault in the shift lever module where it supplies the signal
- Less likelyDefective input stage in the transmission controller
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Gate select sensorShifter assemblyWiring harness
What each part of P2790 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. |
| 90 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2790 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 P2790
What does P2790 mean?
P2790 means "Gate Select Direction Circuit". P2790 is the basic circuit fault for the signal that tells the controller in which direction the selector mechanism is moving across the gate, that is sideways between the shift lanes of the H pattern. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2790?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2790 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2790 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2790 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 P2790 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2790 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.