What is OBD-II Code P28E8 – Shift Motor Position Sensor Circuit High
As a mechanic, one of the most common issues you will encounter is the Check Engine Light (CEL) on a car’s dashboard. When the CEL comes on, it means that the car’s onboard computer has detected a problem and has signaled a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). One of the DTCs that commonly occurs is OBD-II Code P28E8 – Shift Motor Position Sensor Circuit High. In this article, I will explain what this code means, its symptoms, and how to repair the issue.
What is OBD-II Code P28E8?
The OBD-II Code P28E8 means that the car’s onboard computer has detected a malfunction in the shift motor position sensor circuit. The shift motor position sensor is responsible for monitoring the position of the shift motor, which is responsible for shifting the car’s gears. When there is a problem with the shift motor position sensor circuit, it can cause the car’s transmission to shift improperly or not shift at all.
Symptoms of OBD-II Code P28E8
When the OBD-II Code P28E8 appears, it can cause a few symptoms that you’ll immediately notice. The most common symptom is a hesitation or delay in the car’s shift, resulting in jerky or harsh shifts. You may also experience difficulty in shifting, or the car might not shift gears at all. Another common symptom is reduced fuel efficiency, as the car’s transmission is not working correctly.
Causes of OBD-II Code P28E8
The most common cause of OBD-II Code P28E8 is a faulty shift motor position sensor. Other potential causes might include damaged wires, poor connections, or a defective shift motor. It’s essential to identify the root cause of the problem before proceeding with a repair. You’ll need a specialized diagnostic tool to identify the underlying problem successfully.
How to diagnose OBD-II Code P28E8
To diagnose OBD-II Code P28E8, you’ll need a diagnostic tool that can read DTCs. Connect the diagnostic tool to the car’s OBD-II port and let it scan for any trouble codes. If the tool detects OBD-II Code P28E8, you’ll need to identify the root cause using special diagnostic procedures provided by the automaker. The diagnostic tool can display live data of the sensor readings, so you can identify any anomalies that might be causing the problem.
How to repair OBD-II Code P28E8
The repair process for OBD-II Code P28E8 can vary depending on the cause of the problem. If the problem is a damaged wire or poor connection, it’s relatively easy to fix. You’ll need to identify the faulty wire or connection and then correct or replace it. For more complicated issues, such as a faulty shift motor position sensor, you’ll need to replace it with a brand new one. Once the replacement part is installed, you’ll need to clear the DTCs and test drive the car to ensure that the issue is resolved.
Conclusion
OBD-II Code P28E8 is a common problem that can occur with a car’s transmission. Several symptoms and causes can indicate the problem, and it’s essential to identify the root cause precisely before proceeding with the repair process. A precise diagnosis can help you save time, money, and effort in resolving the problem effectively. The best course of action is to bring the car to an automotive service shop to have the diagnostic and repair services done by a professional mechanic.
FAQs
Q1. How much does it cost to diagnose and repair OBD-II Code P28E8?
A: The cost of diagnosing and repairing OBD-II Code P28E8 can vary depending on the root cause of the problem. In general, the cost of diagnosing and repairing the issue can range from $100 to $500. It’s best to get an estimate from an experienced mechanic to get a better idea of the overall cost.
Q2. Can I still drive my car if the Check Engine Light is on due to OBD-II Code P28E8?
A: It’s best not to drive your car if the Check Engine Light is on. The OBD-II Code P28E8 can cause the transmission to shift improperly or not shift at all, resulting in severe driving problems. The best course of action is to have a mechanic diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible.
Q3. Can I fix OBD-II Code P28E8 myself or should I bring it to a mechanic?
A: If you have the necessary skills and tools, you can fix OBD-II Code P28E8 yourself. However, it’s best to bring the car to a mechanic unless you’re confident in your ability to diagnose and repair the issue. The mechanic has years of experience and is more likely to identify the root cause of the problem more accurately.
Q4. How long does it take to diagnose and repair OBD-II Code P28E8?
A: The time it takes to diagnose and repair OBD-II Code P28E8 depends on the root cause of the problem. In general, it takes several hours to diagnose and repair the issue, but it could take longer if the problem is severe.
Q5. Can OBD-II Code P28E8 be prevented?
A: Preventing OBD-II Code P28E8 is challenging as it’s caused by factors outside of your control. However, following the automaker’s recommended maintenance schedule can help prevent other transmission-related issues that could cause the OBD-II Code P28E8.