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2017 911 Carrera S - PDK Transmission Fault Warning

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:51 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S

Hi all,

I'm getting a recurring 'PDK Transmission Fault' warning message on my 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S. It usually pops up after I've been driving for a while, especially if I've been pushing the car a bit. When the warning comes on, the car sometimes goes into a kind of limp mode, and the gear changes become very harsh or delayed.

If I pull over, turn the car off, and restart it, the warning sometimes clears, and the car drives normally for a bit before it reappears. I'm worried about potential damage to the transmission, but it feels more like an electronic glitch than a mechanical one.

Has anyone experienced this with their 991.2? What should I be looking for?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:51 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A 'PDK Transmission Fault' warning in your 2017 911 Carrera S is serious and warrants immediate investigation, even if it clears temporarily. While it can indicate mechanical issues, it's often triggered by electrical or sensor-related problems within the complex PDK system.

  1. Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition: Although less common for electrical faults, an incorrect fluid level or degraded fluid can affect sensor readings and internal pressures, potentially triggering warnings.
  2. PDK Speed Sensors: The PDK relies on various speed sensors (input, output, and internal) to monitor gear engagement and shaft speeds. A faulty or intermittently failing sensor can cause incorrect readings, leading to fault warnings and limp mode. These sensors are often integrated into the mechatronic unit.
  3. Wiring Harness and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness leading to the PDK transmission and its various sensors. Corrosion, fraying, or loose connections can disrupt signals and cause intermittent faults.
  4. Mechatronic Unit Failure: The mechatronic unit is the 'brain' of the PDK, controlling clutch engagement and gear selection. A fault within this complex electronic and hydraulic unit can manifest as transmission warnings and shifting issues.

Common OBD Codes to look for (PDK-specific):

  • P17XX series codes: These are typically manufacturer-specific codes related to transmission components, such as P1731 (Clutch 1 Pressure Sensor Fault), P1741 (Clutch 2 Pressure Sensor Fault), or P17F0 (Transmission Range Sensor Circuit).

When to see a shop: Given the complexity and critical nature of the PDK system, it's highly recommended to have your 911 inspected by a Porsche dealership or a specialized independent shop immediately. They have the necessary diagnostic tools (like PIWIS) to read specific PDK fault codes, perform guided diagnostics, and accurately identify whether the issue is sensor-related, wiring-related, or points to a mechatronic unit problem. Continuing to drive with this fault could potentially lead to more severe transmission damage.

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