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P2792 code meaning

Gate Select Direction Circuit High

Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light

What P2792 means

P2792 reports a gate select direction signal stuck above its valid band. Common reasons are a short between the signal line and a supply voltage, a broken sensor ground that lets the input float up, or an open signal wire on inputs with an internal pull-up resistor; a sensor with a failed output stage can also hold the line high. Which hardware provides the signal, actuator sensor or lever module, depends on the maker, and none of them documents P2792 publicly with limits. The test belongs to the out-of-range checks of CARB 13 CCR 1968.2 for transmission inputs. P2791 is the low-side counterpart and P2790 the general circuit fault. Typical effects are blocked sideways selection, shifts limited to one lane and a transmission warning.

P2792 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 P2792

  • Sideways selection blocked, shifts possible only in one lane
  • Gearbox may stay in gear or neutral
  • Transmission warning lamp

Common causes of P2792

  • Most likelySignal wire shorted to a supply voltage
  • PossibleBroken sensor ground or open signal line pulled up internally
  • PossibleSelect direction sensor failed with high output

Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.

Parts involved

Gate select sensorWiring harness

What each part of P2792 means

PPowertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission.
2Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make.
7Area: transmission.
92The exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note P2792 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 P2792

What does P2792 mean?

P2792 means "Gate Select Direction Circuit High". P2792 reports a gate select direction signal stuck above its valid band. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with P2792?

Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2792 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.

Will P2792 fail an emissions test?

Yes, it can. P2792 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 P2792 to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.

Will P2792 clear itself after the repair?

Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.

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Technical content: OBDex open OBD-II database (public domain, CC0), checked 4 Nov 2026, edited for US drivers by the VinGear team.
Technical sources for P2792