OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic, extended)

P288B Park Lock/Pawl Actuator Circuit Performance

The park lock or pawl actuator does not engage or release within the calibrated time window. Mechanical resistance or weakened actuator.

Is it safe to drive with P288B?

The car may go into limp mode (reduced power). Get it diagnosed before a long trip.

Common causes

  • Most likelyIncreased friction in lock mechanism
  • PossibleActuator force degraded

Repair at a glance

Difficulty
Hard
DIY friendly
Best left to a mechanic
Typical labour
2–7 h
Emissions test
Usually unaffected
Parts involved
Park Lock Actuator, Park Pawl, Wiring Harness

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