What it means
The gear shift position circuit A reports a circuit high 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. P0917 sets when the circuit A signal rises above the expected electrical range, preventing the module from trusting that position reading.
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 review circuit A live data to determine whether the high reading occurs continuously or during a specific shift.
- Inspect the circuit A sensor connector and harness for damaged insulation, water, corrosion, loose pins, or contact with a power wire.
- Use the wiring diagram to check whether the signal wire is shorted to battery voltage or the sensor reference supply.
- Check the sensor's ground and reference connections, then move the selector and harness while monitoring the signal for changes.
- If wiring and connections pass, test the position sensor output against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Repair a circuit A signal wire shorted to a power feed or reference supply.
- Restore a damaged connector seal and repair corroded or loose terminals.
- Repair a poor sensor ground or reference connection.
- Replace the circuit A position sensor if it continues to produce an out-of-range high signal.
Can I keep driving?
If shifts are erratic, delayed, or missing, stop driving and have the vehicle recovered; otherwise, limit use to a short trip for diagnosis. Incorrect position feedback can trigger limp mode or cause the TCM to make unsuitable shift decisions.
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.