P080A Clutch position not defined

P080A Clutch position not defined

OBD-II DTC Datasheet

Clutch position undefined

What does this mean?

This is a Generic Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) applicable to many OBD-II vehicles (1996 and newer). This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Dodge, Ford, Smart, Land Rover, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Jeep, Mercedes, Toyota, etc. Although general, exact repair steps may vary by year, make, model and transmission configuration. ...

OBD-II DTC P080A and related codes P0806, P0807, P0808 and P0809 are associated with the clutch position sensor and / or circuit. This circuit is monitored by the Power Control Module (PCM) or the Powertrain Control Module (TCM) depending on the vehicle.

The clutch position sensor circuit is designed to monitor the condition of the clutch on a manual transmission. This process is accomplished by reading the output voltage of the clutch position sensor, which indicates when the clutch is engaged. The clutch position sensor is usually the main on / off switch mounted next to the clutch foot pedal on the support bracket in most cases. DC voltage is usually present on one side of the switch, and the contacts are closed by engaging the clutch to transfer voltage to the starter motor or starter solenoid. This basic circuit and switch prevents the engine from starting before engaging the clutch.

When the PCM or TCM detects that the clutch position is not "learned", a P080A code will set and the engine warning lamp or transmission warning lamp will illuminate.

Clutch position sensor:

What is the severity of this DTC?

The severity of this code is usually moderate, but P080A can be serious if the vehicle is started with the clutch disengaged, posing a safety issue.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P080A trouble code may include:

• Motor does not start
• The engine will start without engaging the clutch.
• Transmission warning lamp is on
• Check engine light is on

What are some of the common causes for the code?

Reasons for this P080A code may include:

• Clutch position sensor position not calibrated
• Defective clutch position sensor
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Loose or defective control module ground strap
• Corroded, damaged or loose connector
• Defective PCM or TCM

What are some steps to troubleshoot the P080A?

The first step in troubleshooting any problem is to review the vehicle-specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) by year, model, and powerplant. In some cases, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to locate the clutch position sensor switch and look for obvious physical damage. Perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scratches, abrasions, exposed wires, or burn marks. Next, check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion and damage to the contacts. This process should include all electrical connectors and connections to the clutch position sensor switch, PCM, starter and starter solenoid. Consult the specific technical data sheet for the vehicle to see if a fuse or a fuse link is included in the circuit.

Advanced steps

The additional steps become very vehicle specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to be performed accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical reference documents. Specific technical data will include troubleshooting tables and appropriate sequence of steps to help you make an accurate diagnosis.

You may need to go through a clutch position learning or calibration procedure to correct this code.

Voltage test

When the clutch is disengaged, there should be 12 volts on one side of the sensor. When the clutch is engaged, you should have tension on both sides of the sensor. The starter solenoid or starter must also be energized, depending on the configuration.

If this process detects that a power source or ground is missing, a continuity test may be required to check the integrity of wiring, connectors, and other components. Continuity tests should always be done with power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or no continuity indicates faulty wiring that is open or shorted and requires repair or replacement. Continuity testing from the PCM or TCM to the frame will confirm the integrity of the ground straps and ground wires. Resistance indicates a loose connection or possible corrosion.

What are the standard ways to fix this code?

• Cleaning connectors from corrosion
• Repair or replace faulty wiring
• Replacing a blown fuse or fuse (if applicable)
• Repair or replacement of faulty grounding tapes
• Flashing or replacing PCM or TCM

General error

• Replacing the starter, starter solenoid, or control module when the clutch position sensor or damaged wiring is causing the problem.

Hopefully the information in this article has helped point you in the right direction to troubleshoot your clutch position DTC P080A problem. This article is for informational purposes only and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.

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