P0810: Clutch Position Control Error

What Does The P0810 Code Mean?

If your vehicle has stored a code P0810, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the clutch position control system. This code is applicable to vehicles with manual transmissions only.

The clutch position sensor provides a secondary safety feature to prevent the engine from being started while the transmission is in gear. It is typically a two-position switch that is open with the clutch pedal in the up position and closed when it is depressed. Clutch position sensors are usually located under the driver’s side dash on the clutch pedal pivot arm bracket.

The transmission control module (TCM) may be stand alone unit but is most commonly integrated into a single housing with the engine control module (ECM). This is what is referred to as the PCM. The PCM calculates input data from the transmission input speed sensor, output speed sensor, and vehicle speed sensor/s to determine the desired position of the clutch pedal position sensor.

If the PCM detects a malfunction in the clutch position control circuit or detects that the clutch pedal is not in the correct position for current conditions, a code P0810 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated. Multiple ignition cycles (with a failure) may be required for MIL illumination.

What Are The Symptoms Of The P0810 Code?

Symptoms of a P0810 trouble code may include:

• Starter will not engage flywheel to crank engine
• Engine starts with transmission in gear
• No symptoms may be exhibited

What Are The Potential Causes Of The P0810 Code?

Causes for this code may include:

• Defective clutch position sensor
• Open or shorted clutch position sensor control wiring or connectors
• Bad TCM, PCM, or controller programming error

How Serious Is This P0810 Code?

A stored code P0810 indicates that there is a problem in the clutch pedal position sensor circuit. Since the clutch pedal position sensor may disable engine starting, or permit engine starting with the transmission in gear, this code should be categorized as severe.

How Can You Fix The P0810 Code?

A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a source of vehicle specific diagnostic information will be required to diagnose a code P0810.

You may use your source of vehicle information to locate a technical service bulletin (TSB) that matches the vehicle year, make, and model; as well as the engine size, code/s stored, and symptoms exhibited. If you find one, it could yield helpful diagnostic information.

Step 1

Use the scanner (connected to the vehicle diagnostic connector) to retrieve all stored codes and pertinent freeze frame data. It is a good idea to write this information down before clearing the codes then test-drive the vehicle until the PCM either enters readiness mode or the code is reset.

If the PCM enters readiness mode at this time, the code is intermittent and may be much more difficult to diagnose. If this is the case, the conditions which contributed to the code being stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.

Step 2

If the code is immediately reset, the next step of your diagnosis will require that you search your vehicle information source for diagnostic flow-charts, connector pin-out charts, connector face views, and component testing procedures/specifications.

Step 3

Use the DVOM to test voltage and ground circuits at the clutch position sensor. If voltage and ground are detected, use the DVOM to test clutch pedal position sensor output.

Step 4

If the clutch pedal position sensor is functioning properly, use the DVOM to test system circuits. The voltage drop testing method works well for this task. Disconnect all controllers from the circuit prior to testing resistance with the DVOM.

Additional note:

• If a code P0810 is stored in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, suspect PCM/TCM failure or a programming error

Recommended Parts

Below are some recommended auto parts to help you address the trouble code affecting your vehicle and get it running smoothly again:

>>> GM Genuine Parts Clutch Pedal Position Switch
>>> Twippo 372Pcs Waterproof Wire Connectors Kit
>>> TCM
>>> KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter
>>> INNOVA 5210

Note: During the purchasing process, please check carefully whether the part you want to buy fits your car!

Reference Sources

P0810 Clutch Position Control Error, OBD-Codes.