P0902 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Clutch Actuator Circuit Low
1 Ford model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
P0902 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Separate from the clutch shudder that made the PowerShift famous, the DPS6's mechatronic Transmission Control Module - the electronic unit that drives the two shift actuators inside the case - suffers its own solder-joint and internal circuit failures. Failure is usually abrupt rather than progressive: the cluster throws "Transmission Malfunction - Service Now", the car drops out of gear, refuses to shift, or will not move at all, sometimes from highway speed. Clutch actuator control circuit codes (P0902, P090C, P2872, P0910/P0911) are the giveaway. Ford issued Field Service Action 15B22 (TCM reprogramming) and extended TCM coverage to 10 years / 150,000 miles under customer satisfaction programs, which is why so many owners get a TCM replaced at no charge.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission Malfunction - Service Now warning
- Car suddenly will not move or drops out of gear
- Stuck in one gear / limp mode
- No reverse
- Wrench light on dash
How to Fix
Pull the transmission codes before anything else - actuator control-circuit codes point at the TCM rather than the clutch pack. Check for the extended TCM coverage (10yr/150k) and for Field Service Action 15B22 reprogramming by VIN before paying out of pocket. Also inspect the TCM connector (C1750A) and its wiring for damage that mimics TCM failure; Ford SSM 46358 provides a service pigtail for that connector. The repair is TCM replacement and programming to the vehicle.
Sources for this issue (4)
- Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 14M02 Supplement #7 - DPS6 TCM Extended Warranty Coverage (10yr/150k)tsb
- Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 15B22 Supplement #2 - DPS6 TCM Reprogrammingtsb
- Ford Focus & Fiesta PowerShift Dual Clutch TCM Failure Symptoms | Focus Fanatics Forumforum
- 2014 2.0L Ford Focus (transmission malfunction service now) | Focus Fanatics Forumforum
P0902 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0902 mean on a Ford?
P0902 stands for "Clutch Actuator Circuit Low." The clutch actuator control circuit voltage is below the expected range (too low / shorted to ground). On Ford it is documented across 1 model: Focus.
What are the most common causes of P0902?
The most common causes of P0902 are: Actuator circuit shorted to ground, Faulty clutch actuator, Corroded/damaged connector, Internal TCM fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0902 on a Ford?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Ford model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
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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.