P0809 Clutch Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent

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P0809 Clutch Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent

OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Clutch Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent

What does that mean?

This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Dodge, Ford, Smart, Land Rover, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Jeep, Mercedes, Toyota, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.

OBD-II trouble code P0809 and related codes P0805, P0806, P0807, P0808, and P080A are associated with the clutch position sensor circuit. This circuit is monitored by the Power Control Module (PCM) or the Transmission Control Module (TCM) based on the specific vehicle.

The purpose of the clutch position sensor circuit is to monitor the status of the clutch on a manual transmission. This process is accomplished by reading the output voltage of the clutch position sensor that indicates when the clutch is engaged. The clutch position sensor is usually a basic on/off switch mounted near the clutch foot pedal on the support bracket in most circumstances. Constant voltage is typically present on one side of the switch and the contacts are closed by engaging the clutch transferring voltage to the starter or starter solenoid. This basic circuit and switch prevents starting the engine prior to engaging the clutch.

When the PCM or TCM detects an intermittent voltage or resistance problem within the clutch position sensor circuit, code P0809 will be set and the check engine light or the transmission warning lamp will be illuminated.

A clutch position sensor:

What is the severity of this DTC?

The severity of this code is normally moderate, but P0809 can be severe if the vehicle starts with the clutch disengaged creating a safety issue.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0809 trouble code may include:

  • Motor will not start
  • Motor will start without engaging the clutch
  • Transmission warning lamp illuminated
  • Check engine light illuminated
  • What are some of the common causes of the code?

    Causes for this P0809 code may include:

  • Defective clutch position sensor
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Loose or defective control module ground strap
  • Corroded, damaged or loose connector
  • Defective fuse or fuse-able link (If applicable)
  • Defective PCM or TCM
  • What are some P0809 troubleshooting steps?

    The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s) for the specific vehicle by year, model and power plant. In some circumstances, this can save a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

    The second step is to locate the clutch position sensor switch and look for obvious physical damage. Perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burn spots. Next is to check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion and damaged pins. This process must include all wiring connectors and connections to the clutch position sensor switch, PCM, starter and the starter solenoid. Consult the specific tech data for the vehicle to see if a fuse or fuse-able link is incorporated into the circuit.

    Advanced Steps

    The advanced steps become very vehicle specific and require the appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multi meter and the specific technical references for the vehicle. Specific technical data will include troubleshooting charts and the appropriate sequence to follow assisting you with an accurate diagnosis.

    Voltage Checks

    When the clutch is disengaged there should be appropriately 12 volts on one side of the sensor. When the clutch is engaged you should have voltage on both sides of the sensor. The starter solenoid or starter should also have power based on the configuration.

    If this process identifies the absence of a power source or ground, continuity testing may be required to check the integrity of the wiring, connectors and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power removed from the circuit and the normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or no continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced. A continuity test from the PCM or TCM control to the frame will confirm the serviceability level of ground straps and ground wires. The presence of resistance is an indication of a loose connection or possible corrosion.

    What are some common repairs for this code?

  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
  • Replacing blown fuse or fuse-able link (if applicable)
  • Repairing or replacing faulty ground straps
  • Flashing or replacing the PCM or TCM
  • Common Mistake

  • Replacing the starter, starter solenoid or a control module when the clutch position sensor or damaged wiring is causing this issue.
  • Hopefully, the information in this article has been helpful to point you in the right direction to correct the problem with your clutch position sensor circuit fault code. This article is strictly informational and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.

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    "Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0809 in the ECU"

    In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0809 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.

    Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p0809.

    Make an appointment for permanent removal of p0809