P2E13: Gear Selection Actuator Position Sensor Circuit High

What it means

The ECM detects a circuit high fault on the gear selection actuator position sensor. Reading cannot be used reliably for control.

At a glance

• Usually lights the check-engine light
• The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

The gear selection actuator position sensor tells the control module which position the actuator has reached. This code sets when its signal is higher than the module's usable range, which may result from a signal wire touching battery voltage, an open sensor, or a poor connector contact.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Signal wire shorted to B+
2. Open sensor
3. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance

Symptoms

• Check-engine or transmission warning light
• Delayed or failed gear changes
• Transmission may stay in one gear or enter a limited-operation mode

How to diagnose it

1. Save freeze-frame data and compare live actuator position with the requested gear, checking whether the sensor reading is pinned high.
2. Inspect the gear selection sensor connector and signal wiring for corrosion, loose pins, insulation damage, or contact with a B+ feed.
3. Use the wiring diagram to verify sensor supply and ground against the manufacturer's specification.
4. With the circuit isolated as directed by the manufacturer, check the signal wire for a short to B+ and test continuity through the connector.
5. If the wiring is intact, test the sensor output and replace the sensor if it is open or outside the manufacturer's specification.

Common fixes

• Clean and secure corroded or loose connector pins.
• Repair a signal wire shorted to battery voltage.
• Replace an open or failed gear selection position sensor.
• Clear the code and verify the reported position follows gear selection.

Can I keep driving?

Do not rely on the vehicle for normal driving if gear changes are delayed, fail, or it is stuck in one gear; limited operation can make merging or maneuvering unsafe. If shifting remains normal, keep any necessary trip short and have the fault checked promptly.