A P0901 engine code is flagged by the powertrain control module (PCM) detecting performance problems from the clutch actuator circuit. Take your vehicle to a mechanic immediately to prevent damage to your clutch or your vehicle from stalling.

When your vehicle is experiencing problems, it alerts you and your mechanic to the general source of the issue with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC). It requires an OBD-II code reader to access the engine codes, but any mechanic should have one already on hand.

To begin fixing an engine code, you first need to understand what it means. Luckily, the

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What does the engine code P0901 mean?

Definition: Clutch actuator circuit range/performance

Engine code P0901 indicates a performance or electrical issue with the clutch actuator circuit. The clutch actuator links the gearbox and the pedal, and it controls the shifting of gears by passing along information from the powertrain control module.

How much will it cost to fix?

A skilled mechanic should only need an hour to diagnose the cause of your P0901 DTC. Since labor costs vary by location, expect to pay $75-$150 per hour.

The cost of replacement parts and the time needed to install them will depend heavily on the

make and model

of your vehicle. As a result, the total repair bill to fix a P0901 engine code could be $100 or more.

MORE:

How to understand car OBD codes

What can cause the P0901 engine code?

P0901 engine codes are caused by the clutch actuator circuit not performing to factory standards. This is often the result of a faulty clutch actuator.

When your vehicle needs to shift gears, the transmission control module (TCM) will engage or disengage the clutch through the use of the

clutch master cylinder

movement of the clutch actuator. To ensure gear shifts happen smoothly and quickly, the clutch actuator circuit acts as the intermediary between the TCM and the clutch.

Other possible causes of a P0901 engine code are:

The clutch actuator harness is open or shorted

The clutch actuator circuit has a poor electrical connection

Common symptoms of the P0901 engine code

An early sign of a P0901 DTC is the

Check Engine Light turning on

. You may also notice performance issues when your vehicle shifts gears or your car may suddenly stall.

How serious is the P0901 engine code?

Being able to safely and reliably shift gears is a crucial part of your vehicle’s operation. If your car is flagging a P0901 engine code, take your vehicle to a mechanic right away.

A malfunctioning clutch actuator circuit will make even basic gear changes a challenge and can damage your clutch in the long run. To avoid larger

car repair

bills down the road, service a P0901 engine code as soon as you discover it.

MORE:

How can I reduce the costs of car maintenance?

Can I fix the P0901 engine code myself?

Tinkering with your clutch is risky if you don’t have experience working on cars. For the best results, you should have your vehicle serviced by a professional mechanic.

Inspecting the clutch actuator circuit

If you have the necessary skill and tools to check the clutch actuator circuit yourself, you can attempt to diagnose the problem by following these steps:

Inspect the wiring harness and connectors of the clutch actuator circuit

Check for damaged or worn components

Look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector’s pins

If the engine code is still present after your inspection and repairs, you need a professional mechanic to fix the issue.

MORE: How to decide if you should take your car to a repair shop or a mobile mechanic

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