Powertrain, generic (extended)

P288D Shift Fork B Calibration Not Learned

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P288D is the fork B counterpart of P287B: the stored learn values that tell the control unit where fork B or its drum sits in each gear are missing or rejected. No manufacturer documents P288D publicly, and Ford's 2014 catalogue still knew only one fork calibration code, P287B, which suggests the split into A and B came later. On Ford's DPS6, drum B handles reverse plus the 2nd, 4th and 6th gears, with detents near 10, 90, 190 and 280 degrees, so a missing reference mainly hits reverse and the even gears. CARB 13 CCR 1968.2 requires transmission functions of this kind to be monitored. Before relearning, check for drum B position or motor faults such as P2837 or P2836, because the learn usually aborts while those are present; after a TCM swap the procedure is simply part of the job.

Likely causes

Fork learn not carried out after TCM or mechatronic work
Drum B position or motor fault aborting the learn
Worn or bent fork B, worn drum groove

Symptoms

  • Reverse or even gears hesitant or unavailable
  • Transmission warning, possibly MIL

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€80–800
Time0.5–3 h

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

Parts involved

shift fork bshift fork actuator btcm

Related codes

P287BP287CP2836P2837P285F

References: law.cornell.edu, newtonnet.co.uk, performanceparts.ford.com.