Fault code P2796 is called “Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Control Circuit Open” 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 P2796
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic transmission code. Error P2796 is considered a generic code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly from model to model.
Modern vehicles have an automatic transmission control module called a transmission control module (TCM). The power control module (PCM) communicates with the TCM. To monitor the automatic transmission for malfunctions.
If your vehicle retains code P2796, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has received a data input signal. Which indicates that a problem has been detected that requires the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) to turn on.
The transmission controller sets an OBDII code when the electronic transmission auxiliary pump control circuit signal does not meet factory specifications.
The transmission controller activates this fault when the auxiliary transmission pump control circuit signal does not meet factory specifications. In this case, the fault is due to an open circuit.
Some models may require up to 8 drive cycles with the problem before the malfunction indicator will illuminate.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P2796 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Gear mode switch does not work.
- Unstable or abrupt gear shifting.
- Takes a long time to shift gears.
- Low power at high load.
- Transmission may be put into emergency mode.
A stored code P2796 indicates that a potentially serious fault has been detected. This can cause the transmission and its components to fail.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P2796 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Defective auxiliary transmission fluid pump.
- Corrosion of connectors or contacts causing high resistance.
- Problem with wiring, e.g. breakage.
- Defective drive motor.
- Defective transmission fluid pump control relay.
- Blown fuse or fusible link.
- Sometimes faulty PCM or TCM module is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P2796
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P2796:
- 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 P2796 fault appears again.
- Visually inspect the electrical wires and connectors.
- If necessary, repair or replace any shorted, broken, damaged, or corroded components.
- Check the fuse or fusible link.
- Inspect the auxiliary transmission fluid pump.
- Test the pump control relay.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The first thing to do when diagnosing a P2796 malfunction 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, leading to 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 detect a failure caused by faulty wiring, the problem is most likely with the auxiliary transmission fluid pump itself. Its replacement should solve the problem with the P2796 error. But don’t overlook fuses either, as a blown fuse is a common problem.
As with any transmission malfunction, always make sure the fluid levels and quality are at the proper level, and keep them in good condition.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P2796 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Ford
- Lexus (GS300, RX300)
- Nissan
- Toyota (Avensis, Camry, Prado)
Fault code P2796 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P2797, P2798, P2799.
