P0893
Multiple Gears Engaged.
- Generic
- Powertrain
- Generic code
- High severity
How this code is built
- P
- SystemPowertrain
- 0
- Defined bySAE, the same on every car
- 8
- AreaTransmission
- 93
- FaultThe specific fault in that area
What it means
P0893 means the transmission control module has detected that more than one gear is engaged at the same time. It sets when the input and output shaft speeds, or the clutch and shift element commands and feedback, do not match what a single selected gear should produce. This is a transmission fault and the exact detection method depends on the transmission type and model.
Symptoms
- Gearbox goes into limp mode or stays in one gear
- Harsh shifts, shuddering or a sudden jolt on gear changes
- Gearbox feels as if it is binding or the engine is being held back
- Transmission warning light or malfunction indicator lamp on
- Engine stalling or the car refusing to move when selecting drive or reverse
- Flaring or slipping between gear changes
Possible causes
- Faulty shift solenoid or clutch pressure control solenoid sticking or stuck onlikely
- Valve body wear, sticking valves or internal hydraulic faultslikely
- Low, degraded or contaminated transmission fluidpossible
- Faulty input or output speed sensor giving incorrect readingspossible
- Wiring or connector damage between the transmission control module and the transmissionpossible
- Mechanical damage to clutches, gear sets or selector components (such as a seized or broken clutch pack or selector fork in an automated manual or dual clutch unit)possible
- Transmission control module fault or outdated software where a known issue exists for that modelrare
How to diagnose
- Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting gear selected, speeds and fluid temperature when the fault set
- Check for related codes such as speed sensor, solenoid or gear ratio faults, as these can point to the root cause
- Check transmission fluid level and condition where a dipstick or check procedure exists, as the method varies by model
- Inspect transmission wiring, connectors and the harness for damage, corrosion, chafing or fluid ingress
- Compare live input speed, output speed and engine speed data against the commanded gear to find a mismatch
- Test solenoid and speed sensor circuits for resistance and signal against the manufacturer specification
- Check for any technical service bulletins or software updates for the specific model and transmission
- Carry out a line pressure or hydraulic test, or inspect the valve body and clutches, if electrical checks pass
How to fix
- Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors
- Replace the faulty speed sensor or shift solenoid
- Correct the fluid level or change the fluid and filter to the manufacturer specification where fluid condition is the cause
- Repair or replace the valve body or worn hydraulic components
- Overhaul or replace the transmission if internal clutches or gears are damaged
- Update or replace the transmission control module software or unit only where a fault or known issue is confirmed
Can I keep driving?
High severity
Avoid driving the car if you can, as engaging two gears at once can seriously damage the transmission and could cause sudden loss of drive or locking. If the car is in limp mode, drive only a short distance to a safe place or workshop, or arrange recovery.
Guide written by AI from the code's definition. Confirm with a diagnosis before replacing parts.
