What it means
The gear shift position circuit A reports a circuit low fault. Gear shift position feedback is unreliable on this channel.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Gear shift position circuit A sends the TCM feedback about the shift mechanism's position. P0916 sets when the circuit A signal falls below the expected electrical range, so the module cannot reliably determine that position.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Position sensor failed
- Wiring fault
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
- Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
- Slipping or shuddering during gear changes
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check circuit A live data to see whether the low reading is constant or appears during a particular gear selection.
- Inspect the circuit A sensor connector and harness for corrosion, water, damaged insulation, loose pins, or a wire shorted to ground.
- Using the wiring diagram, check the sensor's reference supply and ground, then test the signal wire for shorts to ground or an open circuit.
- Move the selector while watching the circuit A signal and gently flex the harness to reveal a poor connection.
- If power, ground, and wiring are sound, test the position sensor output against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Repair a signal wire shorted to ground or an open in the circuit A harness.
- Clean or replace corroded connector terminals and restore the seal.
- Repair a poor sensor ground or reference supply connection.
- Replace the circuit A position sensor if its output remains low with sound wiring.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid driving if the transmission hesitates, selects the wrong gear, or enters limp mode; arrange help if gear selection is uncertain. The loss of position feedback can lead to harsh shifts or leave the vehicle stuck in a limited gear.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.