Powertrain, generic · Transmission

P08A3 Gear Lever Y Position Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

This code covers short dropouts or jumps in the signal of the second, redundant Y-axis sensor of an electronic selector lever. No manufacturer documents P08A3 publicly. GM, the only proven user of this sensor family, uses only range/performance, low and high (P08A0 to P08A2) in all OBD tables from 2016 to 2025 and catches an unsteady PWM signal through the frequency check inside P08A0. CARB 1968.2 (e)(15) requires input components to be monitored for circuit faults and plausibility. GM's patent on two redundant lever sensors explains why a second sensor exists: if one becomes invalid, the other keeps range selection alive. Expect loose contacts in the console harness; the MIL status depends on the maker.

Likely causes

Loose or fretting contact at the selector connector
Harness chafed by console or lever movement
Sensor 2 with intermittent internal fault

Symptoms

  • Stored fault that comes and goes, often without driver complaint
  • Occasional shifter warning message
  • Possibly check engine light, depending on the manufacturer

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€80–900
Time0.5–2.5 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

gear lever y position sensor 2wiring harnesstcm

Related codes

P08A0P08A1P08A2P0824P089F

References: law.cornell.edu, patents.google.com, gsi.ext.gm.com.