P287B code meaning
Shift Fork A Calibration Not Learned
Powertrain system Generic code P28xx codes Check engine light
What P287B means
P287B says that the control unit has no valid learned reference positions for shift fork A and therefore cannot place it accurately in neutral or in its gears. On electrically shifted dual-clutch boxes such as Ford's DPS6, drum A moves the forks for 1st, 3rd and 5th; the TCM knows each detent only as an angle, roughly 10, 90 and 190 degrees, derived from hall sensors on a motor that turns 61.44 times per drum revolution. Ford's 2014 list carries P287B, then worded simply as shift fork calibration not learned, as an MIL code. GM's 2023 Corvette TCM shows the comparable logic under P287C, which checks stored synchronizer rod positions at start-up. Typical triggers are a new or reflashed TCM, an interrupted learn routine, or a fork position fault that makes the learn fail.
P287B 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 P287B
- Odd gears engage late, roughly or not at all
- MIL or transmission warning
- Learn procedure with scan tool does not complete
Common causes of P287B
- Most likelyTCM replaced or reprogrammed without running the fork learn
- PossibleLearn routine aborted by low voltage or other fault codes
- PossibleFork A position or drum fault preventing a valid learn
- Less likelyWorn fork, drum groove or detent
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Shift fork aShift fork actuator aTCM
What each part of P287B 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. |
| 7B | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P287B 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 P287B
What does P287B mean?
P287B means "Shift Fork A Calibration Not Learned". P287B says that the control unit has no valid learned reference positions for shift fork A and therefore cannot place it accurately in neutral or in its gears. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P287B?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P287B the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P287B fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P287B 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 P287B to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P287B clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.