P28D1 code meaning
Clutch A Motor Driver Current/Temperature Too High
Powertrain system Generic code P28xx codes Check engine light
What P28D1 means
P28D1 is set when the power stage that drives the clutch A motor exceeds its current limit or its internal temperature limit. This output stage, usually part of the transmission controller or the actuator electronics, protects itself by shutting down or derating, after which clutch A can no longer be operated normally. Overcurrent typically follows a motor that is hard to turn, such as a pump jammed by debris as Stellantis describes for the 7HDT300 actuator, or a shorted winding. Overheating also results from long periods of high pressure demand, for instance creeping in traffic or hill holds, and from a hot clutch already flagged by P2787. Phase circuit faults are P28C4-P28C6. No manufacturer publishes P28D1 thresholds.
P28D1 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P28D1
- Transmission warning after heavy use, may clear after cooling down
- Clutch A temporarily disabled
- Possibly stored together with clutch temperature code P2787
Common causes of P28D1
- Most likelyClutch A motor or pump hard to turn, e.g. jammed by particles
- PossibleLong periods of high clutch pressure demand in stop-and-go or on gradients
- Less likelyShorted motor winding drawing excess current
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Clutch motor aWiring harnessTCM
What each part of P28D1 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. |
| D1 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P28D1 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 P28D1
What does P28D1 mean?
P28D1 means "Clutch A Motor Driver Current/Temperature Too High". P28D1 is set when the power stage that drives the clutch A motor exceeds its current limit or its internal temperature limit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P28D1?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P28D1 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P28D1 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P28D1 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 P28D1 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P28D1 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.