P2887 code meaning
Park Lock/Pawl Actuator Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P28xx codes Check engine light
What P2887 means
P2887 is the general circuit code for the actuator that engages and releases the park lock in park-by-wire transmissions. It covers faults that are not specifically open, low or high, and some manufacturers use it as a base code that carries a failure-type byte. Ford's 2024-25 summary does just that: on its front-drive 8-speed automatics the open, ground-short and power-short cases also appear as P2887 with bytes 13, 11 and 12, and on the TR9070 dual-clutch box a bare P2887 marks a parking lock hold solenoid mechanically stuck on. Volvo's Technical Journal 36754 concerns several 2024 models whose TCM stores P288772 with the message Transmission Service Required; the remedy is new TCM software, and Volvo explicitly says not to replace the gearbox.
P2887 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2887
- Transmission service message or warning lamp
- P cannot be selected or released reliably
Common causes of P2887
- PossibleControl software misjudging the actuator circuit
- PossibleLoose, corroded or damaged actuator connector or harness
- PossiblePark lock actuator or hold solenoid sticking or failed
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Park lock actuatorPark pawlWiring harness
What each part of P2887 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. |
| 87 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2887 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 P2887
What does P2887 mean?
P2887 means "Park Lock/Pawl Actuator Circuit". P2887 is the general circuit code for the actuator that engages and releases the park lock in park-by-wire transmissions. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2887?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2887 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2887 fail an emissions test?
P2887 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P2887 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2887 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.