P2801 code meaning
Transmission Range Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P28xx codes Check engine light
What P2801 means
Here the B signal of the range sensor is electrically present but its content does not make sense. On sensors with a pulse-width output, Ford checks the carrier frequency: its 2024 summary sets P2801 (UDS P2800_38) on the 6R80, 6R140, 10R60 and 10R80 automatics when the frequency leaves 125 Hz plus or minus 25 Hz, while the 2012 summary applies the same test to the 250 Hz signal of the DPS6 dual-clutch box. On the hybrid eCVT, Ford's 2019 summary instead compares two sensor angles and fails it beyond 3.85 degrees, with the wrench lamp only. Ford SSM 49822 lists P2801 among range and fluid temperature sensor codes on 2020-2021 Super Duty trucks with the 10R140. P0706 is the A-side counterpart.
P2801 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 P2801
- Warning lamp with shift quality or gear display issues
- Transmission uses a fixed substitute range strategy
Common causes of P2801
- Most likelyRange sensor electronics producing a wrong signal frequency
- PossibleDamaged or loose pins at the transmission connector
- Less likelySensor shifted on its shaft so the angles disagree
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission range sensor bWiring harnessTCM
What each part of P2801 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 8 | Area: transmission. |
| 01 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2801 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 P2801
What does P2801 mean?
P2801 means "Transmission Range Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance". Here the B signal of the range sensor is electrically present but its content does not make sense. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2801?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2801 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2801 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2801 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 P2801 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2801 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.