Powertrain, generic · Transmission

P090A Clutch B Actuator Control Circuit/Open

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Watches the drive circuit of the actuator for clutch B, the second clutch of a dual-clutch transmission, and sets when the module finds an open circuit. Ford uses it on the DPS6 PowerShift of the Fiesta and Focus: the clutch B electric motor is tested for driver faults (P087A), hall sensor faults (P087B), sequence errors (P087E), an open circuit (P090A), a short to ground (P090C) and a short to power (P090D). Trade guidance for the DPS6 is to swap the two identical clutch motors; if the code moves to the clutch A equivalent P0900, the motor is defective, otherwise the harness or TCM is. CARB requires circuit monitoring of such outputs. Shifting becomes erratic and the gearbox may refuse to drive.

Likely causes

Failed clutch B actuator motor
Loose connector or broken wire to the clutch B motor
Faulty motor driver inside the TCM

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Even gears or reverse missing, erratic shifts
  • Limp mode or no drive

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–900
Time1–3 h

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

Parts involved

clutch b actuatorwiring harnesstcm

Related codes

P090BP090CP090DP0900P087AP087B

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