Fault code P0831 is called “Clutch Pedal Position (CPP) Switch “A” Circuit Low” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0831
OBD-II fault code P0831 is a generic code that is defined as “low signal in circuit “A” of the clutch pedal position switch”. It is set when the transmission control module (PCM) detects a low signal level.
It is also possible that the clutch pedal, the position switch itself, or an electrical circuit that is directly connected to the clutch pedal position switch has failed. It is important to refer to the vehicle’s Technical Manual to determine which part of the clutch pedal position switch is marked with an “A”.
The purpose of the clutch pedal position switch is to control the position of the clutch pedal as a safety measure. To prevent the engine from starting when the manual transmission is not in neutral.
In practice, the clutch pedal position switch is a simple ON/OFF switch. Which is mounted so that the clutch pedal acts directly on it when depressed.
In a fully functional system, this simple switch makes it impossible to start the engine if the clutch pedal is not fully depressed. Note, however, that a low signal level, will set code P0831, but the warning light may not illuminate.
The clutch pedal switch “A” circuit is designed for the PCM to monitor the position of the clutch pedal. This process is done by reading the clutch position sensor voltage output.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0831 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- The “Check engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a fault).
- The engine will not start.
- The engine will start without engaging the clutch.
The severity of fault code P0831 is usually medium, but it can be serious if the vehicle is started with the clutch disengaged, which creates a safety hazard.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0831 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Clutch position sensor switch is defective.
- Improperly adjusted clutch pedal position switch.
- Fuse or fusible link is blown.
- Corroded or damaged connector.
- Faulty or damaged wiring harness.
- Poor electrical connection in circuit.
- Sometimes faulty PCM module is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0831
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0831:
- Inspect the wiring for damage, abrasions, breaks, and shorts. If wiring is damaged, repair or replace it.
- Remove all diagnostic trouble codes from the PCM and test drive to see if diagnostic trouble code P0831 returns.
- Check the clutch position sensor switch.
- Adjust the clutch pedal position switch if necessary.
- Check the fuse or fusible link.
- If all is correct, the PCM may need to be replaced and reprogrammed.
Diagnose and repair of problems
To rule out all possibilities of error P0831, visually inspect the wiring to the input and output speed sensors. Check all system fuses and replace blown ones if necessary. Also check the battery under load, cable connections, and alternator power.
Locate the diagnostic connector, plug in the scanner and get all the stored codes and data. Write this information down, as it may help you in further diagnosis. Delete the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the P0831 code reappears after resetting.
Check the voltage
Locate the clutch position sensor switch and inspect for obvious physical damage. Perform a thorough visual inspection, for obvious defects such as scratches, scuffs, exposed wires, or burn spots.
When the clutch is off, there should be 12 volts on one side of the switch. When the clutch is on, you should have voltage on both sides of the switch. The starter solenoid or starter should also have power depending on the configuration.
If you find no power source or grounding when you check, you may need to check the continuity of the circuit. To make sure the wiring and the clutch position sensor switch are in good working order.
When the clutch is engaged, you should detect continuity through the switch. And when the clutch is released, the gauge should show no continuity through the switch.
The continuity check should always be done with power disconnected from the circuit, and the normal reading for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or no continuity indicates faulty wiring that is open or shorted and requires repair or replacement.
It is not unreasonable to check the system fuses when the P0831 error occurs. Fuses that may appear normal when first tested may fail when the circuit is under load.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0831 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Cadillac
- Chevrolet
- Chrysler
- Dodge
- Fiat
- Ford
- GMC
- Jaguar
- Land Rover (Discovery)
- Nissan
- Peugeot
- Pontiac
- Saturn
- GAZelle (Business, Sobol, UMZ 4216, Valdai, ZMZ 405)
Fault code P0831 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0830, P0832, P0833, P0834, P0835, P083F.
