Code
P0C1B
Generic
P — Powertrain
Electric/Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Control Module Internal Temperature Too High
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Actual overheating of the pump or control module (excessive load, high ambient or restricted fluid flow)
- Low or contaminated transmission fluid causing poor cooling
- Blocked fluid passages, clogged cooler or heat exchanger
- Stalled or mechanically binding pump increasing heat load
- High electrical current draw to the pump (shorts, seized motor, incorrect voltage)
- Faulty internal temperature sensor in the pump/control module
Symptoms
- Transmission warning light or POST message
- Reduced transmission performance or limp-in mode
- Loss of drive or delayed/harsh shifting
- Unusual noise from pump area (grinding or whining)
- Elevated transmission temperature readout (if available)
- Blown fuses or tripped thermal protection in extreme cases
What to check
- Read DTCs and freeze frame/scan tool data; note reported internal temperature and operating conditions when fault stored
- Visually inspect pump, control module and wiring for heat damage, corrosion, loose connectors or fluid contamination
- Check transmission fluid level, color and smell (burnt odor); sample fluid if suspect
- Check for blocked cooler lines, collapsed hoses or restricted cooler core
- Verify battery voltage and ground at the pump module with engine running and during pump activation
- Monitor pump current draw and module temperature data with a scan tool or clamp meter
Signal parameters
- Module supply voltage: nominal battery/charging system (typically ~12–14.5 V while running)
- Module ground: low resistance to chassis ground
- Internal temperature sensor output: typically an analog signal (0–5 V) or resistance that varies with temperature — verify against OEM chart
- Pump motor current draw: varies by vehicle/pump design (common range under load is single digits to tens of amps) — compare to service spec
- CAN/communication status: module should respond on network with current temp and status data
Diagnostic algorithm
- Retrieve all active and pending codes plus freeze frame using a capable scan tool. Note operating conditions (vehicle speed, engine rpm, ambient temp).
- Visually inspect pump, control module, harness and connectors for heat damage, melted insulation, corrosion, fluid intrusion or loose pins. Repair or secure as needed.
- Check transmission fluid level and condition. If low or contaminated, address fluid/flow issues before further electrical diagnosis.
- With a scan tool, monitor the pump/module internal temperature parameter and pump current while cycling pump function if service procedures allow. Compare values to expected behaviour.
- Measure module supply voltage and ground under load. Look for voltage drop or poor ground which can cause overheating or erroneous readings.
- If the module provides a temperature sensor signal (voltage or resistance), verify sensor circuit integrity and compare values to the OEM temperature chart. Replace sensor/module if out of range.
- Measure pump motor current with a clamp meter during operation and compare to spec. High current indicates mechanical binding or motor fault; low/zero indicates open circuit or failed motor.
- Inspect and test cooler lines and cooler for blockage; flush or replace as required. Verify fluid flow through the pump and cooler.
- Repair or replace damaged wiring, connectors, pump or control module as indicated by tests. Clear codes, then perform operational test/road test to confirm fault does not return.
- If module replacement is required, follow OEM programming/learning procedures for TCM/ECM/module initialization where applicable.
Likely causes
- Actual pump/control module overheating due to low/dirty fluid or restricted cooler
- High current draw from a failing or binding pump motor
- Faulty internal temperature sensor or module electronics
- Poor power/ground or damaged wiring causing module heat or false readings
Fault status
Status
Internal temperature of the electric/auxiliary transmission fluid pump control module has exceeded the permitted threshold or the module reports an over-temperature condition. May cause reduced transmission function or protective shutdown.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.5-4.0 hours
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