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P27E5 code meaning

Electric/Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Control Valve Circuit Low

Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light

What P27E5 means

P27E5 sets when the voltage on the auxiliary pump control valve line is pulled toward ground, typically by chafed insulation touching the case or by a coil shorted internally. No manufacturer documents the code openly. For orientation: in Volkswagen's 8-speed 09P and 0GC transmissions the electric pump V475 keeps pressure while the engine is stopped, and a regulator-driven valve routes its flow; a grounded drive line would leave that valve in its spring position. CARB 13 CCR 1968.2 requires circuit monitoring for such outputs. The controller usually switches the output off to protect its driver. P27E6 is the opposite fault, a short to supply; P27E3 an open. Check the harness where it passes brackets or the oil pan.

P27E5 at a glance

  • Check engine lightYes, usually on
  • Emissions testCan fail
  • Limp modePossible
  • Repair difficultyMedium
  • Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
  • Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner

Symptoms of P27E5

  • Stop-start switched off
  • MIL lit

Common causes of P27E5

  • Most likelyControl line chafed through and touching ground
  • PossibleValve coil shorted internally
  • Less likelyFluid or water in the connector bridging to ground

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

Parts involved

Aux transmission pump control valveWiring harnessTCM

What each part of P27E5 means

PPowertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission.
2Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make.
7Area: transmission.
E5The exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note P27E5 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 P27E5

What does P27E5 mean?

P27E5 means "Electric/Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Control Valve Circuit Low". P27E5 sets when the voltage on the auxiliary pump control valve line is pulled toward ground, typically by chafed insulation touching the case or by a coil shorted internally. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with P27E5?

Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P27E5 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.

Will P27E5 fail an emissions test?

Yes, it can. P27E5 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 P27E5 to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.

Will P27E5 clear itself after the repair?

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

Look up another code

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 P27E5