P288B code meaning
Park Lock/Pawl Actuator Circuit Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P28xx codes Check engine light
What P288B means
P288B means the park lock actuator is electrically intact but does not do what it is told, for example the lock fails to move in time. Ford's 2024-25 summary calls it functionally stuck off on its front-drive 8-speeds and mechanically stuck off on the TR9070 dual-clutch box. Several bulletins cure it with software: Ford 21-2107 for the 2020 Escape with 8F24, which could drop into Park during start-stop and lit the wrench lamp; Nissan NTB20-038 for the 2020 Titan, where two attempts were needed to leave Park; Audi 2080044 for 2025 A5 and Q5 models that could not select P; and FCA for the 2017-18 Pacifica Hybrid, where P288B became a permanent code that blocked smog checks. Only if it returns after an update is the actuator or wiring suspect.
P288B at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P288B
- P cannot be selected or needs several attempts to leave
- Unexpected shift to P during start-stop
- Warning lamp or MIL
Common causes of P288B
- Most likelyControl software needing an update (Ford, Nissan, Audi, FCA)
- PossibleSluggish or sticking park lock actuator or pawl mechanism
- Less likelyLow supply voltage or poor connection under load
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 P288B 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. |
| 8B | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P288B 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 P288B
What does P288B mean?
P288B means "Park Lock/Pawl Actuator Circuit Performance". P288B means the park lock actuator is electrically intact but does not do what it is told, for example the lock fails to move in time. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P288B?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P288B the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P288B fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P288B 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 P288B to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P288B 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.