Multiple Gears Engaged
The P0893 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Multiple Gears Engaged. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No — stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $300 - $4,500 (valve body or solenoid at the low end; overhaul at the high end)
Read and clear transmission codes. Many trans codes are caused by low or burnt fluid -- check level and color before assuming the worst.
Basic scanners only read engine codes. This reads transmission, ABS, and airbag too.
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Common Symptoms
- Harsh engagement, binding, or the vehicle lurching
- Transmission may lock into fail-safe
- Possible drivetrain noise or a stall at a stop
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Internal transmission fault - stuck valve, failed solenoid, or clutch failure engaging two gears at once High
- Valve body debris or wear High
- TCM commanding conflicting solenoid states Low
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0893 mean?
P0893 means the control module detected two gears applied simultaneously - a serious internal transmission condition.
Can I keep driving with P0893?
No. Driving with multiple gears engaged can lock the wheels or cause severe internal damage. Have it towed.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Stop driving - two gears engaged at once can lock the driveline or destroy the transmission.
-
Read all transmission codes and freeze-frame data.
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Check fluid level and condition; heavily contaminated fluid points at internal wear.
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This diagnosis is internal - plan on a transmission shop with the OEM procedure.
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
Commonly Affected Vehicles
- 2010-2020 Ford F-150
- 2012-2019 Chevrolet Silverado
- 2011-2020 Toyota Camry
- 2009-2019 Honda Accord
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