P0901: Clutch A Actuator Control Circuit Range/Performance

Set when the clutch A actuator circuit is electrically present but does not behave as expected, for instance when the measured current or response deviates too far from the target. Usage differs by maker. Ford lists P0901 among the DPS6 PowerShift codes, and trade guidance recommends swapping the two identical clutch motors: if the fault moves to clutch B, the motor is bad. Honda added P0901 on the 2015 TLX V6 nine-speed automatic for abnormal resistance in the clutch pressure control solenoid circuits, with failsafe gear hold and MIL. FCA recall 16V529 on 9-speed models also uses it to decide on a harness replacement. P0900, P0902 and P0903 are the pure circuit faults; P090B is the clutch B counterpart.

Symptoms

• Check engine light on
• Shudder, harsh engagement or missed shifts
• Failsafe mode with a held gear

Most likely causes

• Weak or worn clutch A actuator motor (dual-clutch units)
• High resistance in the transmission harness or sub-harness
• TCM fault or outdated TCM software

What to check, in order

Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.

1. Check the fluid level and condition
2. Compare the reading with other engine data while varying the engine speed.
3. Read the input and output speed in live data
4. Check the connector and wiring
5. Check for other related engine codes
6. Consult the manufacturer's procedure for the transmission

Good to know

• Repair difficulty: medium
• It can trigger limp mode.
• It affects emissions.

What each character of P0901 means

• P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
• 0: Generic code: same on every make
• 9: Transmission
• 01: Specific fault in that system

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep driving with code P0901?

Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.

What causes code P0901?

The most common causes are: weak or worn clutch A actuator motor (dual-clutch units); high resistance in the transmission harness or sub-harness; tCM fault or outdated TCM software.

Related codes

• P0900Clutch A Actuator Control Circuit/Open
• P0902Clutch A Actuator Control Circuit Low
• P0903Clutch A Actuator Control Circuit High
• P090BClutch B Actuator Control Circuit Performance

Sources

• static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10116781 9999
• static.nhtsa.gov: RCRIT 16V529 9891
• static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10237441 0001
• gearsmagazine.com: diagnosing the dps6 knowing the good helps you ide

Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.