OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic, extended)
P280A Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit Not Learned
The TCM has not learned the calibration window for transmission range sensor A. Selector positions cannot be mapped reliably until adaptation completes.
Is it safe to drive with P280A?
Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.
Common causes
- Most likelyAdaptation lost after battery disconnect or TCM reset
- PossibleSensor replaced without learn procedure
Symptoms
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
- Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
- Slipping or shuddering during gear changes
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Easy
- DIY friendly
- Best left to a mechanic
- Typical labour
- 0.3–1.5 h
- Emissions test
- Usually unaffected
- After the fix
- A drive cycle is needed before the light stays off
- Parts involved
- Transmission Range Sensor A, Tcm
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.