Powertrain, generic (extended)

P288E Shift Fork A Actuator Control Circuit Driver Current/Temperature Too High

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P288E is a self-protection code of the output stage that powers the actuator of shift fork A. The driver reports a current above its limit or an excessive chip temperature, and the module throttles or switches off that actuator. No manufacturer documents P288E publicly. Ford's DPS6 shows where such a stage sits: a motor driver chip inside the TCM, which Ford calls the ATIC, sets the current of the three-phase motor for drum A, yet Ford books faults of that chip as P2831, not P288E. Plausible triggers are a shorted winding or lead, a drum or fork that binds so the motor stalls at full current, repeated shift attempts against a blockage, and heat in the transmission housing. CARB 13 CCR 1968.2 sets the monitoring duty. With fork A out of action, 1st, 3rd and 5th may no longer engage.

Likely causes

Shorted winding or lead in the fork A actuator circuit
Binding drum or fork stalling the actuator under full current
High transmission temperature adding heat to the driver
Defective driver stage in the control unit

Symptoms

  • Odd gears do not engage, car may start in 2nd
  • Transmission warning and limp mode

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–2,500
Time1–8 h

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

Parts involved

shift fork actuator atcm

Related codes

P288FP285BP285DP285EP2831P288C

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