P0893
Multiple Gears Engaged
Transmission mechanical / hydraulic
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0893 means the transmission control module has detected more than one gear engaged at the same time — a serious mechanical or hydraulic fault. The engine still starts, but driving with two gears locked in can cause the transmission to bind, jerk, or seize, potentially locking the drive wheels. This is a stop-driving code: have the vehicle towed and diagnosed by a transmission specialist.
High
Can I keep driving? Stop driving — multiple gears engaging at once can bind the driveline or lock the wheels; have it towed and repaired rather than risk transmission or safety damage.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Harsh engagement, slipping, or erratic shifting
- Transmission may bind, jerk, or lock up
- Reduced acceleration or limp mode
- Unusual noises from the transmission
Common causes
Most likely first
- Malfunctioning shift solenoids or valvesLikely
- Valve-body or hydraulic pressure faultCommon
- Low or contaminated transmission fluidCommon
- Internal mechanical wear (clutches or bands)Less often
- Faulty transmission control module (less common)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Stop driving, read freeze-frame data, and check transmission fluid level and condition.
- Scan for related solenoid and pressure codes to narrow down the cause.
- Test the shift solenoids and valve body for correct operation.
- Inspect internal transmission components for mechanical wear.
- Repair or overhaul as needed — this usually requires a transmission specialist. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0893?+
No. Two gears engaging at once can bind the driveline or lock the drive wheels, which is dangerous and can destroy the transmission. Have the car towed.
Can I just clear P0893?+
Clearing it doesn't fix the mechanical or hydraulic fault causing multiple gears to engage, and it will return — often immediately.
Related codes
Often seen with P0893
Read & clear P0893 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX