Clutch position sensor has failed internally, producing a high-resistance or open signal; Signal wire between the sensor and the powertrain control module is shorted to a power source; Corroded, loose, or damaged electrical connector at the clutch position sensor; Damaged or misadjusted sensor mounting bracket causing the sensor to read out of range; Faulty powertrain control module, though this is rare and should be diagnosed last

DTC codes / P08xx · Transmission / P0808

P0808Clutch Position Sensor Circuit High

Q: What does code P0808 mean?

Clutch Position Sensor Circuit High. P0808 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an abnormally high voltage on the clutch position sensor circuit, which typically means the signal wire is shorted to power or the sensor's internal resistance has risen beyond specification. The computer expects a voltage within a calibrated range as the clutch pedal moves, and a reading above the upper threshold triggers this code.

P0808 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an abnormally high voltage on the clutch position sensor circuit, which typically means the signal wire is shorted to power or the sensor's internal resistance has risen beyond specification. The computer expects a voltage within a calibrated range as the clutch pedal moves, and a reading above the upper threshold triggers this code.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaTransmission

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Difficulty engaging or disengaging the clutch smoothly, especially when starting from a stop
The engine may stall when coming to a stop or when the clutch pedal is pressed
Inconsistent clutch pedal feel or a pedal that does not return to its normal resting position
Cruise control or engine start-stop functions may become inoperative on vehicles that use the clutch position signal

Common causes, most likely first

Clutch position sensor has failed internally, producing a high-resistance or open signal
Signal wire between the sensor and the powertrain control module is shorted to a power source
Corroded, loose, or damaged electrical connector at the clutch position sensor
Damaged or misadjusted sensor mounting bracket causing the sensor to read out of range
Faulty powertrain control module, though this is rare and should be diagnosed last

How to diagnose and fix it

Connect a scan tool and record the clutch position sensor voltage with the key on and engine off, then compare it to the manufacturer's specification
Visually inspect the sensor connector and wiring harness for corrosion, chafing, or loose pins, and repair as needed
Back-probe the sensor signal wire at the powertrain control module and check for a short to voltage with the sensor disconnected
Test the clutch position sensor with a multimeter for resistance or voltage output through its full travel, and replace it if it does not match the specification
Check the sensor mounting bracket and pedal assembly for damage or misalignment that could hold the sensor out of its normal range
Clear the diagnostic trouble codes and perform a road test to verify the repair, confirming the code does not return

Clutch Sensor Voltage Checks Before Replacement

A shorted signal wire can mimic a failed sensor, so always disconnect the sensor and recheck the circuit voltage before condemning the part.
On some vehicles, the clutch position sensor shares a reference voltage with other sensors, and a fault in that shared circuit can set P0808 along with other codes.
A misadjusted or bent sensor bracket can hold the sensor at the top of its travel, producing a high-voltage signal even when the sensor itself is good.
The clutch position sensor signal is often used by the cruise control and engine start-stop systems, so those features may be disabled even if the driver notices no drivability issue.
After replacing the sensor, some vehicles require a relearn procedure for the clutch pedal position, which a scan tool must perform to prevent the code from returning.

Can I keep driving with P0808?

You can usually drive the vehicle to a repair shop, but avoid aggressive clutch operation and be prepared for the engine to stall when coming to a stop. If the clutch pedal feels abnormal or the engine stalls frequently, stop driving and have the vehicle towed to prevent a safety hazard.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.