What Does the Engine Code P0845 Mean?

If your car is showing the P0845 engine code, you’ll need to get your transmission fluid pressure sensor checked out.
Written by Macy Fouse
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
If your car is showing the P0845 engine code, your transmission fluid pressure sensor has detected an abnormal voltage reading. It’s important to get your vehicle checked out right away as this could lead to your vehicle being unsafe to drive. 
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) help identify problems with your car’s engine. If you use an  OBD-II scanner to get an engine code, it’s crucial to understand what the code could mean so you can identify the source of the issue and know how to address it. 
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What does the engine code P0845 mean?

Definition: Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'B' Circuit
The P0845 engine code is a code indicating that the transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch (TFPS) has alerted an abnormality to the powertrain control module (PCM)
The PCM uses several sensors and readings to know the amount of pressure needed to operate the transmission. If the fluid pressure sensor detects the wrong amount of pressure, the transmission won’t operate properly, leading to engine code P0845

How much will it cost to fix?

It should take around one hour of labor to diagnose the problem, which may cost anywhere from $75 and $150 per hour. Depending on the source of the problem, you’ll have to pay an average of $300 or more to fully fix this issue. 

What can cause the P0845 engine code?

If your engine is showing the P0845 code, it’s usually due to a faulty electronic pressure control solenoid or transmission fluid sensor. Other causes may include:
  • Internal transmission failures
  • Jammed transmission fluid passages
  • Low transmission fluid
  • Contaminated transmission fluid
  • Faulty PCM, in rare cases

Common symptoms of the P0845 engine code

Other than the check engine light being illuminated, you may notice a few other symptoms:
  • Harsh shifting 
  • Slipping transmission
  • Overheating transmission
  • Decreased fuel economy
  • Disengagement from torque converter clutch

How serious is the P0845 engine code? 

The symptoms may go unnoticed or seem mild, but it’s best not to put off taking action. This code points to a serious issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Ignoring this problem could lead to an undrivable or unsafe vehicle.

Can I fix the P0845 engine code myself?

You might be able to fix the P0845 engine code yourself if you have mechanical knowledge. However, it’s important to correctly identify the issue before attempting repairs. 
Attending to this engine code may require: 
  • Replacing a faulty electronic pressure control solenoid
  • Replacing a faulty transmission fluid sensor
  • Clearing blocked transmission fluid passage
  • Dealing with any internal transmission issues
  • Refilling low transmission fluid
  • Flushing out contaminated or old transmission fluid and replacing it with new fluid
  • Replacing a PCM or TCM, in a few cases
It’s important to check electrical components before tackling any major repairs because shorts are often to blame. Of course, it’s always a good idea to get a professional inspection to identify and repair the issue. 

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