Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Error in Clutch Position Control
What does that signify?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that is applicable to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer), including Volvo, Toyota, Ford, Honda, Jeep, etc. However, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration of the vehicle.
If your vehicle has stored a code P0810, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the clutch position control system. This code is only applicable to vehicles with manual transmissions.
The clutch position sensor serves as a secondary safety feature to prevent the engine from starting while the transmission is in gear. It is usually a two-position switch that is open when the clutch pedal is in the up position and closed when it is depressed. Clutch position sensors are typically located under the driver’s side dash on the clutch pedal pivot arm bracket.
The transmission control module (TCM) may be a stand-alone unit, but it is commonly integrated into a single housing with the engine control module (ECM), which is referred to as the PCM. The PCM uses input data from the transmission input speed sensor, output speed sensor, and vehicle speed sensor/s to determine the desired position of the clutch pedal position sensor.
If the PCM detects a malfunction in the clutch position control circuit or determines that the clutch pedal is not in the correct position for the current conditions, it will store a code P0810 and illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). Multiple ignition cycles (with a failure) may be required for the MIL to illuminate.
What is the severity of this DTC?
A stored code P0810 indicates a problem in the clutch pedal position sensor circuit. Since this sensor can disable engine starting or allow engine starting with the transmission in gear, this code should be considered severe.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P0810 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
What are some P0810 troubleshooting steps?
To diagnose a code P0810, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a source of vehicle-specific diagnostic information.
You can use your source of vehicle information to find a technical service bulletin (TSB) that matches the vehicle’s year, make, and model, as well as the engine size, stored code/s, and exhibited symptoms. If you find one, it may provide helpful diagnostic information.
Step 1
Use the scanner (connected to the vehicle diagnostic connector) to retrieve all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data. It is recommended to write down this information before clearing the codes and then test-drive the vehicle until the PCM either enters readiness mode or the code is reset.
If the PCM enters readiness mode at this time, the code is intermittent and may be more difficult to diagnose. In such cases, the conditions that contributed to the code being stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
Step 2
If the code is immediately reset, the next step in your diagnosis will involve searching your vehicle information source for diagnostic flowcharts, connector pin-out charts, connector face views, and component testing procedures/specifications.
Step 3
Use the DVOM to test the voltage and ground circuits at the clutch position sensor. If voltage and ground are detected, use the DVOM to test the clutch pedal position sensor output.
Step 4
If the clutch pedal position sensor is functioning properly, use the DVOM to test the system circuits. The voltage drop testing method is effective for this task. Disconnect all controllers from the circuit before testing resistance with the DVOM.
