Gear Shift Position Actuator Circuit Low
The P2813 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Gear Shift Position Actuator Circuit Low. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $300 - $1500 (parts and labor)
Read and clear transmission codes. Many trans codes are caused by low or burnt fluid -- check level and color before assuming the worst.
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Basic scanners only read engine codes. This reads transmission, ABS, and airbag too.
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Common Symptoms
- Shift actuator not moving
- Transmission locked in one gear
- No response to shift commands
- Dashboard gear display frozen
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Short to ground in actuator circuit Very High
- Actuator motor winding failure High
- TCM driver shorted low Moderate
- Connector corrosion creating resistance Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Check actuator circuit for short to ground
-
Measure actuator motor winding resistance
-
Test TCM actuator driver output
-
Inspect actuator connector
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when the actuator cannot move?
The transmission stays in whatever gear was last engaged. The TCM cannot command any gear changes, effectively locking the transmission in one ratio.
Can I get home if stuck in 3rd gear?
If locked in a mid-range gear like 3rd, you can drive slowly. Starting from a stop will be sluggish, and top speed will be limited.
Is the actuator motor replaceable separately?
On some designs the motor is a separate component. On others it is integrated into the actuator assembly and must be replaced as a unit.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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