P0804 1-4 Upshift Warning Lamp Control Circuit Malfunction (Skip Gear)

P0804 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Trouble code P0804 indicates a malfunction in the 1-4 upshift warning lamp (skip gear) control circuit.

What does the fault code mean P0804?

Trouble code P0804 indicates a problem in the vehicle's shift light control system (sometimes called the shift light control system). This code indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the electrical circuit that controls the upshift lamp. As a result, the driver may experience problems shifting gears or notice that the shift light is not working correctly. When this problem is detected, the PCM stores the P0804 code and activates the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to alert the driver of the problem.

Possible reasons

Trouble code P0804 can be caused by various reasons:

• Electrical Defect: Problems with the wiring, connectors, or connections that control the shift light can cause this code to appear.
• Defective gear shifter: If the gear shifter is not functioning properly or is mechanically damaged, it can cause the P0804 code.
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Problems: Defects in the Powertrain Control Module itself can cause the shift light signals to be misinterpreted, resulting in P0804.
• Engine Control Module (ECM) Problems: Since many TCMs are integrated with the ECM in the same PCM, problems with the ECM can also cause a P0804 code.
• Electrical interference or interruptions in the vehicle's electrical system: Uncontrolled electrical signals or power problems can cause the transmission control system to malfunction and trigger trouble code P0804.

To accurately identify the cause, it is necessary to diagnose the transmission using specialized equipment or contact a qualified auto mechanic.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0804?

Symptoms for a P0804 trouble code may vary depending on the specific problem with the shift lamp control system, but some possible symptoms include:

• Shifting Problems: The driver may experience difficulty or inability to shift gears, especially when upshifting.
• Incorrect Shift Display: The gear shift light on the instrument panel may not work correctly or display incorrect information about the current gear.
• Automatic Limpidity: In some cases, the vehicle may go into limp or speed limit mode due to a transmission control problem.
• Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) Activation: When the PCM detects a problem in the transmission control system, it activates the malfunction indicator light on the instrument panel to alert the driver of the problem.
• Rough Engine Running: In some cases, shifting problems can affect engine performance, causing rough running or loss of power.

How to diagnose a fault code P0804?

To diagnose the problem with DTC P0804, the following steps are recommended:

1. Symptom test: Inspect the vehicle and note any symptoms such as gear shifting problems, incorrect display of the gear indicator on the instrument panel, and other transmission abnormalities.
2. Using the Diagnostic Scanner: Connect the diagnostic scan tool to your vehicle's OBD-II port and read the trouble codes. Make sure the P0804 code has been saved and look for other codes that may be related to transmission problems.
3. Checking electrical connections: Inspect the electrical connections and connectors associated with the transmission control system, including wires, connections and connectors. Make sure they are securely connected and have no visible damage.
4. Checking the gear selector: Check the condition and functionality of the gear selector. Make sure it works properly and has no mechanical damage.
5. PCM and TCM diagnostics: Use diagnostic tools to check the transmission control module (TCM) and engine control module (ECM). Check them for errors and malfunctions related to transmission control.
6. Electrical Circuit Testing: Test the electrical circuits that control the shift lamp using a multimeter or other specialized tools.
7. Looking for other reasons: If there are no obvious problems with the electrical circuits or shifter, additional tests may be needed to identify other causes, such as defects in the transmission itself.

If you are not experienced in performing such diagnostic procedures, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center for diagnosis and repair.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0804, the following errors may occur:

• Ignoring other error codes: Sometimes the problem can be related to other components of the transmission or engine, which can cause additional error codes to appear. It is necessary to carefully check all error codes and take them into account when diagnosing.
• Insufficient diagnostics of electrical circuits: Without a complete electrical check, you may miss a problem with the wiring, connectors, or other components that control the shift light.
• Component replacement failed: Sometimes auto mechanics may replace components such as the shifter or transmission control module without performing sufficient diagnostics. This may lead to unnecessary costs and may not solve the problem.
• Insufficient testing of mechanical components: The problem with the gear shifter may be caused by mechanical damage or improper installation. Check for mechanical damage or malfunction.
• Incorrect interpretation of test results: Errors can occur due to misinterpretation of test results, especially when using diagnostic tools. This can lead to misdiagnosis and incorrect conclusions.

To avoid these errors, it is important to perform diagnostics with a thorough understanding of the transmission control system and use the correct techniques and tools to identify and correct the problem.

How serious is the fault code? P0804?

Trouble code P0804 can be a serious problem because it indicates possible problems with the transmission control system, which can lead to difficulty shifting gears and improper operation of the vehicle. If this problem is ignored or handled incorrectly, the following consequences may occur:

• Deterioration in vehicle handling: Improper operation of the transmission control system may result in difficulty shifting gears, which in turn may impair vehicle handling, especially on varying road conditions.
• Increased wear on transmission components: Shifting problems can cause excessive heat and wear on internal transmission components such as clutches and bearings, which can reduce their life and lead to the need for repair or replacement.
• Potential accidents: If the transmission malfunctions seriously, the driver may have difficulty controlling the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident or unpredictable driving behavior.
• Increased fuel consumption: Improper transmission operation can result in increased fuel consumption due to inefficient gear shifting and increased engine load.

Overall, transmission control problems can have a serious impact on the safety and performance of your vehicle, so it is recommended that you see a qualified auto mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and resolve the problem.

What repairs will resolve the P0804 code?

Resolving the P0804 trouble code will depend on the specific cause of its occurrence, but there are several possible actions that may help resolve the issue:

1. Checking and replacing the gear switch: If the problem is due to a defect or malfunction in the gear shifter, it may need to be replaced. Before replacement, diagnostics must be performed to ensure that the switch is the source of the problem.
2. Diagnostics and repair of electrical circuits: Carry out a thorough diagnosis of the electrical circuits, connections and connectors associated with the transmission control. If problems are found, such as breaks, short circuits or damage, they must be repaired or replaced.
3. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Diagnostics and Repair: If the problem is due to a faulty transmission control module, it may need to be repaired or replaced. This may include reprogramming the module or replacing defective components.
4. Updating the software: In some cases, the problem may be resolved by updating the software in the transmission control module. This may help eliminate programming errors or improve system performance.
5. Inspection and repair of other related components: The diagnosis may also reveal the need to repair or replace other components, such as sensors, valves, or solenoids, that may be related to transmission control.

It is important to contact a qualified auto mechanic or service center for diagnosis and repair. Only an experienced technician with access to the necessary equipment will be able to accurately determine the cause of the problem and perform the repair correctly.

How to Diagnose and Fix P0804 Engine Code - OBD II Trouble Code Explain

P0804 – Brand-specific information

A few common P0804 codes for some popular brands:

1. Ford, Lincoln, Mercury: Code P0804 usually means “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction” or “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction”.
2. Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick: For these brands, P0804 may be associated with “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction” or “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction”.
3. Toyota, Lexus, Scion: For these brands, the P0804 code may mean “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction” or “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction.”
4. Honda Acura: For Honda and Acura, P0804 may indicate “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction” or “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction”.
5. Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat: For these brands, P0804 may be associated with “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction” or “1-4 Upshift (Skip shift) warning lamp – circuit malfunction”.

These are general guidelines only, and for your specific vehicle make and model, it is recommended that you take it to an authorized dealer or qualified auto mechanic for diagnosis and repair.