OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic, extended)

P271A Park Pawl Position Sensor A Circuit Low

The position sensor that confirms the park pawl A engagement state reads below the lower diagnostic threshold. Without confirmed park engagement the shift-by-wire controller cannot release the brake hold.

Is it safe to drive with P271A?

Usually safe for short trips, but don’t ignore it: the underlying fault can get more expensive over time.

Common causes

  • Most likelyInternal short in sensor element
  • PossibleSignal wire shorted to ground
  • Less likelyConnector pins corroded - high contact resistance

Repair at a glance

Difficulty
Hard
DIY friendly
Best left to a mechanic
Typical labour
1.5–5 h
Emissions test
Usually unaffected
Parts involved
Park Pawl Position Sensor A, Wiring Harness

Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.