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P0870ModerateTransmission

P0870 on 1994-2001 Ram 1500 — Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit

1 vehicles · 1 makes · $150-$500 repair

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Most Reported On

1994-2001Ram 1500

P0870 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit.” General fault in the transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch 'C' circuit. Signal missing or implausible. This code is most commonly reported on 1994-2001 Ram 1500, with repair costs ranging from $150 to $500.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (1)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (2)
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Common Causes

1Faulty pressure sensor/switch C
2Open or shorted wiring
3Corroded connector
4Internal TCM fault

Typical Repair Cost

$150 - $500

Based on 1 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P0870, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

by ANCEL

A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

  • Read & clear engine codes
  • View freeze frame data
  • I/M readiness status
  • No batteries or app needed
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Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

by BlueDriver

Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.

  • Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
  • Repair Reports with verified fixes
  • Smog check readiness
  • Free app (iOS & Android)
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Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

by LAUNCH

A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

  • Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
  • Live data stream & graphing
  • AutoVIN for vehicle identification
  • Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
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Professional$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

by Autel

Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.

  • All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
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  • Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (1)

Ram P0870 page →
1500Critical

42RE/46RE Governor Pressure Solenoid and Sensor Failure — Limp Mode / Wrong-Gear Start

1994-2001$150-$5000 reports

Related Codes (8)

P0871Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "C" Circuit Range/PerformanceP0872Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit LowP0873Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit HighP0874Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit Intermittent17125Torque Converter Clutch Circuit: Performance or Stuck OffC0700Transmission Control Module CommunicationP0218Transmission Over Temperature ConditionP0500Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

FAQ

What does P0870 mean?

P0870 stands for "Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit." General fault in the transmission fluid pressure sensor/switch 'C' circuit. Signal missing or implausible.

What are the most common causes of P0870?

The most common causes of P0870 are: Faulty pressure sensor/switch C, Open or shorted wiring, Corroded connector, Internal TCM fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P0870?

Repair costs for P0870 range from $150 to $500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by P0870?

Au7o has documented P0870 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Ram.

Sources (2)

  • articleTroubleshooting Dodge Transmission Problems (governor pressure solenoid) - Youcanic
  • Forum47re limp-in mode w/no codes shifting problems. Fixed. - RamCharger Central
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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