Powertrain, generic (extended)

P288B Park Lock/Pawl Actuator Circuit Performance

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modePossible

P288B means the park lock actuator is electrically intact but does not do what it is told, for example the lock fails to move in time. Ford's 2024-25 summary calls it functionally stuck off on its front-drive 8-speeds and mechanically stuck off on the TR9070 dual-clutch box. Several bulletins cure it with software: Ford 21-2107 for the 2020 Escape with 8F24, which could drop into Park during start-stop and lit the wrench lamp; Nissan NTB20-038 for the 2020 Titan, where two attempts were needed to leave Park; Audi 2080044 for 2025 A5 and Q5 models that could not select P; and FCA for the 2017-18 Pacifica Hybrid, where P288B became a permanent code that blocked smog checks. Only if it returns after an update is the actuator or wiring suspect.

Likely causes

Control software needing an update (Ford, Nissan, Audi, FCA)
Sluggish or sticking park lock actuator or pawl mechanism
Low supply voltage or poor connection under load

Symptoms

  • P cannot be selected or needs several attempts to leave
  • Unexpected shift to P during start-stop
  • Warning lamp or MIL

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€50–1,800
Time0.5–4 h

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

Parts involved

park lock actuatorpark pawlwiring harness

Related codes

P2887P2888P2889P288AP07E4P07B5

References: fordservicecontent.com, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov.