P2857 code meaning
Clutch A Pressure Engagement Performance/Too Low
Powertrain system Generic code P28xx codes Check engine light
What P2857 means
P2857 reports that clutch A did not build up enough holding force when the control unit asked it to engage, so the expected ratio or torque transfer never appeared. Mitsubishi documents it for the CVT with two-speed auxiliary gearbox fitted to Mirage and Mirage G4 models from 2014 to 2022: while that gearbox is shifted into its first ratio, a measured ratio of 2.232 or more for 2 s counts as a fault, provided the pedal is at least 7.8 % open, the engine turns 450 rpm or more and D or B is selected. Nissan lists the same number as a clutch A pressure fault on the Kicks and Versa CVT, and Mercedes-Benz uses it on the 8G-DCT when multidisk clutch 1 fails to close. Drivers typically notice slipping, a flaring engine on take-off or a reduced-power mode.
P2857 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 10 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2857
- Engine speed flares on take-off without matching acceleration
- Hesitation or reduced power, transmission emergency mode
- Warning lamp with stored transmission code
Common causes of P2857
- Most likelyControl valve (valve body) not delivering the commanded apply pressure to clutch A
- PossibleWorn clutch A linings or leaking piston seals
- PossibleLow, aerated or aged transmission fluid
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Clutch aClutch actuator aTransmission pump
What each part of P2857 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. |
| 57 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2857 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 P2857
What does P2857 mean?
P2857 means "Clutch A Pressure Engagement Performance/Too Low". P2857 reports that clutch A did not build up enough holding force when the control unit asked it to engage, so the expected ratio or torque transfer never appeared. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2857?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2857 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2857 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2857 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 P2857 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 10 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2857 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.