What it means
The control module detects an electrical circuit fault involving transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch E. The code alone does not establish whether the sensor or wiring has failed.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch E reports pressure information used by the control module to manage transmission operation. P0987 indicates an electrical fault in the E sensor circuit, but the code by itself does not identify whether the sensor, its wiring, or a connection is responsible.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Sensor failed
- Wiring fault
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 read transmission live data for pressure sensor/switch E, noting whether its reading is missing, fixed, or changes as operating conditions change.
- Inspect the E sensor connector and nearby harness for a loose plug, fluid intrusion, corrosion, rubbed insulation, or damaged wires.
- Check the sensor circuit's reference, ground, and signal connections using the vehicle wiring diagram and the manufacturer's procedures.
- Compare the E sensor's output with scan-tool data and the manufacturer's specification under the specified conditions.
- If wiring and connections pass, test or substitute pressure sensor/switch E as directed by the manufacturer, then investigate the control module only if the sensor circuit checks out.
Common fixes
- Reconnect or clean the E sensor connector and repair damaged terminals.
- Repair an open, shorted, or chafed wire in the E sensor circuit.
- Replace transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch E if testing confirms it has failed.
- Repair a verified control-module or connector fault after the sensor circuit has passed testing.
Can I keep driving?
If the transmission shifts normally and no slipping is present, limit driving to a short trip for diagnosis and avoid towing or hard acceleration. If it slips, shudders, shifts unpredictably, or locks into one gear, stop driving when safe because continued operation can worsen transmission damage.
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.