Powertrain, generic · Transmission

P0903 Clutch A Actuator Control Circuit High

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Set when the control circuit of the clutch A actuator shows a high state, meaning a motor or control line is shorted to battery voltage. Ford names P0903 as the short-to-power test of the clutch A motor in the DPS6 PowerShift gearbox of the Fiesta and Focus, part of a set with P0900 for an open circuit and P0902 for a short to ground. Ford's OBD summary gives no thresholds for these motor checks. Because both DPS6 clutch motors are identical, swapping them shows whether the motor or the harness and TCM side is at fault. CARB requires such circuit checks on transmission output components. P090D is the same fault on clutch B. The clutch is released and the vehicle may not drive normally.

Likely causes

Motor or control wire shorted to a supply line
Internal fault in the clutch A actuator motor
Faulty motor driver in the TCM

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Limp mode, gears missing or no drive
  • Harsh or delayed engagement

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–1,200
Time1–3 h

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

Parts involved

clutch a actuatorwiring harnesstcm

Related codes

P0900P0901P0902P090D

References: newtonnet.co.uk, gearsmagazine.com, law.cornell.edu.