Fault code P0894 is called “Transmission Component Slipping” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0894
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic transmission code. Error P0894 is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.
If your vehicle has stored code P0894, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has received input data signal from the input and output speed sensors. Which indicates that an internal transmission component is slipping.
The PCM uses input signals from multiple engine and transmission sensors to calculate an automatic transmission shift strategy. Electromagnetic shift valves are used to interrupt high-pressure fluid flow. To allow the transmission to shift gears.
The control unit uses voltage input signals from the transmission input speed sensor and the transmission output speed sensor. To determine if the transmission is running efficiently and without slipping.
Transmission slip codes can be caused by electrical or mechanical faults. Quite often, when the friction material is worn, the transmission cannot realize the desired gear ratio due to slippage.
This condition is usually accompanied by the characteristic smell of burnt friction material.
If the PCM detects a degree of transmission slip that exceeds the maximum allowable parameters. Code P0894 may be stored and the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) will illuminate.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0894 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Transmission slipping.
- May have difficulty shifting gears while driving.
- Unstable or abrupt gear shifting.
- Gears take a long time to change gears.
- Strong smell of burnt friction material.
- Transmission may be put into emergency mode.
A stored code P0894 indicates that a potentially serious fault has been detected. The conditions that contributed to the stored code should be corrected as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0894 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Internal mechanical transmission failure.
- Faulty input or output speed sensor.
- Short in input or output speed sensor wiring.
- Sometimes the cause is a faulty PCM module or programming error.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0894
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0894:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic connector and read all stored data and error codes.
- Clear the error codes, perform a test drive, and check if the P0894 fault appears again.
- Visually inspect the electrical wires and connectors.
- If necessary, repair or replace any shorted, broken, damaged, or corroded components.
- Check input and output speed sensors.
- Test the PCM software and the physical condition of the module.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The first thing to do when diagnosing a P0894 fault is to check the electrical part for damage. In today’s vehicles, electrical and electronic signals require good cabling for proper data transmission. Any faults, such as breaks, disconnected connectors, or corrosion, can interrupt signals, resulting in transmission control failures.
Check the battery pack, as some PCM and TCM modules are sensitive to low voltage. If the battery is low, the system may detect this as a failure. Make sure the battery is delivering at least 12 volts and that the alternator is running properly, at least 13 volts at idle.
If the car does not show a failure caused by faulty wiring, the problem is most likely caused by faulty speed sensors in and out of the transmission. Replacing them should solve the problem with the P0894 error. But you shouldn’t overlook fuses either, because a blown fuse is a common problem.
After checking the electrical components completely, it’s worth paying attention to the transmission’s internal failure. If there is a strong smell of burnt friction material, it is probably worn out and needs to be replaced.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0894 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Chevrolet (Express, Silverado, TrailBlazer)
- GMC
- Land Rover
- Lexus (LX570)
- Mazda (3, 6, Demio)
- Mercedes-Benz
- Renault (Logan, Sandero)
- Toyota (Sequoia, Tundra)
- Volvo
Fault code P0894 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0741, P088A, P088B, P0814, P0819.
