P2871 code meaning
Clutch A Performance/Stuck Disengaged
Powertrain system Generic code P28xx codes Check engine light
What P2871 means
P2871 means clutch A does not close, or slips so much that it behaves as if open. Mitsubishi documents this for the clutch in the front transaxle of the 2023 Outlander PHEV, which links the engine to the wheels in parallel mode: once parallel mode has been active for 2 s, the PHEV-ECU counts how often the speeds before and after the clutch differ by 75 rpm or more for 2 s, and after eight such events the code sets and the MIL lights. Mitsubishi points to a worn clutch, low fluid, a leaking or contaminated valve body, the oil pump, pressure regulator or relief valve, and very low ambient temperature. Volvo also stores P287100 in the rear-axle inverter of its T8 hybrids and clears it with IEM software.
P2871 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 10 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P2871
- Engine cannot drive the wheels directly, only series or electric drive
- Engine speed rises without extra thrust
- MIL on
Common causes of P2871
- Most likelyWorn clutch A that slips under load
- PossibleLow transaxle fluid or external leak
- PossibleValve body, oil pump, pressure regulator or relief valve not supplying pressure
- Less likelyControl unit fault or outdated software
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Clutch aClutch actuator aValve body
What each part of P2871 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. |
| 71 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2871 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 P2871
What does P2871 mean?
P2871 means "Clutch A Performance/Stuck Disengaged". P2871 means clutch A does not close, or slips so much that it behaves as if open. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2871?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2871 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2871 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2871 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 P2871 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 10 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2871 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.