Faulty clutch position sensor B or its internal circuitry; Damaged, chafed, or corroded wiring in the sensor circuit; Loose or corroded electrical connector at the sensor or PCM; Mechanical wear or misalignment of the clutch pedal assembly affecting sensor travel; Contamination or debris on the sensor element; PCM software issue or internal fault (less common)

DTC codes / P08xx · Transmission / P087B

P087BClutch Position Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance

Q: What does code P087B mean?

Clutch Position Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance. P087B indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an out-of-range or erratic signal from the clutch position sensor B circuit, which is used to monitor the travel or engagement point of the clutch. The computer compares the sensor voltage against expected values for the current driving conditions and flags the code when the signal falls outside the valid range or fails a rationality check.

P087B indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an out-of-range or erratic signal from the clutch position sensor B circuit, which is used to monitor the travel or engagement point of the clutch. The computer compares the sensor voltage against expected values for the current driving conditions and flags the code when the signal falls outside the valid range or fails a rationality check.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaTransmission

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light or service engine soon light
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially in early stages
Hesitation or jerking during gear changes, particularly from a stop
Inconsistent clutch engagement point or a clutch pedal that feels different
Reduced engine power or limp mode in some vehicles
Difficulty starting the engine if the clutch pedal position is used for starter interlock

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty clutch position sensor B or its internal circuitry
Damaged, chafed, or corroded wiring in the sensor circuit
Loose or corroded electrical connector at the sensor or PCM
Mechanical wear or misalignment of the clutch pedal assembly affecting sensor travel
Contamination or debris on the sensor element
PCM software issue or internal fault (less common)

How to diagnose and fix it

Inspect the clutch position sensor and its connector for physical damage, corrosion, or loose pins
Check the sensor circuit wiring for continuity, shorts to ground, and shorts to voltage using a multimeter
Verify sensor operation with a scan tool by monitoring live data while slowly pressing and releasing the clutch pedal
Perform a visual inspection of the clutch pedal assembly for wear, binding, or missing return springs
Compare sensor B readings with sensor A (if equipped) to identify irrational signals
Replace the clutch position sensor if electrical and mechanical checks pass but the signal remains erratic
Clear the code and perform a road test to confirm the repair and ensure the code does not return

Clutch sensor B faults that fool technicians

A worn clutch pedal bushing or a missing pedal return spring can cause the sensor to report an out-of-range signal even when the sensor itself is good.
Aftermarket floor mats or pedal covers that restrict clutch pedal travel can trigger this code by preventing the sensor from reaching its expected endpoints.
The code can set intermittently due to a poor ground connection at the chassis or engine block, which affects the reference voltage seen by the PCM.
Some vehicles use the clutch position signal for cruise control cancel and engine start logic, so a failing sensor may cause unrelated drivability complaints before the code sets.
A binding clutch master cylinder pushrod can mimic a sensor fault by altering the pedal travel ratio, leading to misdiagnosis and unnecessary sensor replacement.

Can I keep driving with P087B?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive with this code, but avoid aggressive clutch operation and be prepared for inconsistent engagement that could affect smooth gear changes. If the vehicle enters limp mode or the clutch pedal feels abnormal, have it inspected promptly to prevent further damage.

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.