P0810 - CLUTCH POSITION CONTROL ERROR

Information provided by the Clutch Position Sensor (CPS) prevents the engine from starting while the transmission is engaged. This sensor is a two-position switch that opens when the clutch is in the up position and closes when the clutch is depressed.

The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) calculates input data from the Transmission Speed Sensor (TSS) and Vehicle Speed Sensors (OSS) to determine the desired position of the CPS Sensor.

If the PCM finds a malfunction in the CPS Sensor control circuit or detects that the clutch is not in the correct position for the current conditions, the DTC P0810 OBDII code will be stored.

What does the P0810 Generic Fault Code Work?

This DTC is a generic transmission code and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996 and later). This applies to some like Volvo, Toyota, Ford, Honda, and Jeep, among others. While the troubleshooting steps are general, the exact troubleshooting steps can be different according to model year, brand, and transmission configuration.

As we already established, if your vehicle has stored a P0810 code, it indicates that the PCM has found a malfunction in the clutch position control system. Generally, this code only appears on vehicles with a manual transmission. The clutch position sensor supplies an extra safeguard function that keeps the engine from starting when a gear is engaged. This is normally a two-position switch that operates when the clutch pedal is in the up position and locks when it is pushed in. Clutch position sensors are usually located under the dash on the driver’s side in the clutch pedal pivot arm bracket.

The TCM can be a separate unit, but mostly it is built into a single housing with the ECM. The PCM calculates input from the transmission input speed sensor, output speed sensor, and vehicle speed sensors so it can determine the desired position of the clutch pedal position sensor. When there is a malfunction on it, the P0810 code appears and the MIL illuminates.

• Check Engine light comes on.
• The starting circuit may be disabled until this code is resolved.
• The engine starts with the transmission in gear.

The reasons for setting the P0810 OBD2 fault code are:

• The Clutch Position Sensor may be faulty.
• The CPS Sensor wires or connectors may be damaged.

To troubleshoot the P0810 OBDII diagnostic code you must do the following:

• Check the Technical Service Bulletins of your vehicle. The information contained in them will be very useful in the diagnosis.
• Inspect the CPS Sensor wires and connectors, and make sure they are in optimal condition for proper operation. You should repair or replace any of these that are found to be defective.
• With a DVOM test the voltage and circuitry of the Clutch Position Sensor. Also, check the output of this sensor. The values obtained should be in the same range as indicated by the manufacturer. Repair it as necessary.
• Replace the Clutch Position Sensor.