Powertrain, generic (extended)

P2793 Gear Shift Direction Circuit

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P2793 covers the circuit that reports the shift direction, the fore-and-aft movement along a lane that actually engages or releases a gear, as opposed to the sideways lane choice monitored by P2790. Depending on the design, an automated manual reads it from a sensor on the shift actuator, while shift-by-wire systems may take it from the lever or a separate selector module. The controller stores the circuit fault when the signal is absent or not valid at all; signals that are present but too low or too high set P2794 or P2795. No manufacturer documents P2793 publicly with set conditions; CARB 13 CCR 1968.2 requires such inputs to be checked for circuit integrity. If the controller cannot tell which way the shift is going, it usually stops shifting, keeps the engaged gear and turns on the warning lamp.

Likely causes

Open circuit or poor contact at the shift direction sensor connector
Failed shift direction sensor on the actuator
Faulty shift lever or selector module where it sends the signal
Transmission controller input fault

Symptoms

  • No up- or downshifts, gearbox keeps the current gear
  • Selector input ignored
  • Warning lamp and transmission message

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€50–1,000
Time0.5–3 h

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

Parts involved

shift direction sensorshifter assemblywiring harness

Related codes

P2794P2795P0914P0920

References: law.cornell.edu, en.wikipedia.org.