P2801: Transmission Range Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to generic code level because this page is not scoped to one make or model.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P2801.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What Does P2801 Mean?
P2801 code: Transmission Range Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance. Symptoms, likely causes, diagnostic path, severity, and repair cost context.
Symptoms of P2801
- ⚠️ Warning light or diagnostic trouble code is stored
- ⚠️ Fuel economy may drop, fuel smell or exhaust smell may increase, or emissions readiness may fail
- ⚠️ The vehicle may drive normally while the monitor continues to fail
- ⚠️ Vehicle may fail an emissions or safety inspection until the code is resolved and monitors reset
Common Causes
- 🔍 Sensor reading, wiring, connector, actuator, emissions, or module condition detected by the control module
- 🔍 Low battery voltage, poor ground, software, or network issue affecting the related circuit
- 🔍 Mechanical condition that should be confirmed with live data before replacing parts
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"ON TWO DIFFERENT OCCASIONS I HAD TO TAKE MY 2016 HONDA ACCORD FOR A "SRS " AIR BAG (P2801 CODE) TOTAL INTERAL FAILURE. DEALERSHIP REPLACED UNIT AND CLEARED DTCS. SEAT BELTS WERE BUCKLED BUT SYSTEM WOULD NOT REGISTER AS BEING BUCKLED. PRETTY SCARY STUFF CONSIDERING THIS IS MY FAMILY CAR AN HAVE C"
— Honda Accord owner, 2016-08-01
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P2801
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | HONDA ACCORD |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P2801 enough to replace a part?
Can I drive with P2801?
What To Do Next
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1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.