Fault code P088B is called “Transmission Fluid Filter Very Deteriorated” 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 P088B
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic transmission code. Error P088B is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.
Many vehicles have an automatic transmission control module called a transmission control module (TCM). The Engine Control Module (PCM) communicates with the TCM. To monitor the automatic transmission for malfunctions.
If your vehicle retains code P088B, it means that the transmission control module (PCM) has received a data input signal. Which indicates that a problem has been detected that requires the Malfunction Indicating Lamp (MIL) to turn on.
If error P088B is registered by the transmission control module, the fault code is stored, and the Malfunction Indicating Lamp (MIL) illuminates. The code most often appears when the transmission fluid filter is very worn or has failed.
Some models may require up to 8 driving cycles with the problem before the MIL will illuminate.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P088B has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- You may have difficulty shifting gears while driving.
- Unstable or abrupt gear shifting.
- Shifting gears takes a long time.
- Transmission may be put into emergency mode.
A stored code P088B indicates that a potentially serious fault has been detected. The conditions that contributed to the stored code should be corrected as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P088B can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Transmission fluid filter is worn and must be replaced.
- Corrosion, open or shorted wiring or connectors.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P088B
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P088B:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic connector, and read all stored data and error codes.
- Clear the error codes, perform a test drive, and check if the P088B fault appears again.
- Visually inspect the electrical wires and connectors.
- If necessary, repair or replace any shorted, broken, damaged, or corroded components.
- Replace the transmission fluid filter.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The first thing to do when diagnosing a P088B fault is to check the electrical part for damage. In today’s vehicles, electrical and electronic signals require good cabling for proper data transmission. Any malfunctions, such as breaks, disconnected connectors, or corrosion, can interrupt signals, resulting in transmission control failures.
Check the battery pack, as some PCM and TCM modules are sensitive to low voltage. If the battery is low, the system may detect this as a failure. Make sure the battery is delivering at least 12 volts and that the alternator is running properly, at least 13 volts at idle.
If the car does not show a failure caused by faulty wiring, the problem is most likely caused by a worn transmission fluid filter. Its replacement should solve the problem with the P088B error. But don’t overlook fuses either, because a blown fuse is a common problem.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P088B can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Audi
- Mercedes-Benz
- Nissan
- Renault
Fault code P088B can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P088A, P0814, P0819, P0894.
