P0848 on 2016-2022 Honda Pilot: 3rd Clutch Switch Failure Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2016-2022 Honda Pilot

The 2016-2022 Honda Pilot was available with both a 6-speed and a 9-speed automatic transmission. This P0848 issue is overwhelmingly common on the 6-speed automatic transmission found in LX, EX, and EX-L trims (pre-2021). Owners report that these pressure switches can fail relatively frequently, sometimes even just a couple of years after being replaced. The failure often triggers a startling cascade of warning lights on the dashboard beyond just the check engine light, including 'Transmission System Problem', 'Emission System Problem', and 'Blind Spot Monitor Problem 🎬 Watch: See how this sensor triggers multiple dashboard warnings', which can be alarming but all stem from this single, inexpensive sensor fault.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Flashing 'D' (Drive) indicator light on the dashboard
• Multiple warning messages appearing at once (e.g., 'Transmission System Problem', 'Emission System Problem')
• Harsh, jerky, or delayed shifting, especially around 3rd gear
• Vehicle enters 'limp mode,' often getting stuck in 2nd or 3rd gear
• Vehicle may feel like it slams into gear

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed 3rd Clutch Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly This specific switch is a known common failure item on this platform and its powertrain mates; owner forums and mechanic videos cite it frequently as a recurring problem.
   How to confirm: After confirming code P0848, the most definitive and common repair is to replace the switch. A technician can also test the switch's circuit for an open or short to high voltage. Visually, the new OEM replacement part is often black, while the old failure-prone part may be green.
   Typical fix: Replace the 3rd clutch pressure switch and the corresponding crush washer. A transmission fluid drain-and-fill is highly recommended at the same time.
   Est. part cost: $50-$100
2. Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly Degraded fluid can contain clutch material and other debris, which may clog the small passages in the pressure switch, causing it to malfunction. Honda transmissions are known to be sensitive to fluid condition.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick (engine warm, on level ground). Note the fluid's color and smell; it should be reddish and not smell burnt. Dark or black fluid indicates a problem.
   Typical fix: Perform one or more transmission fluid drain-and-fill procedures using Honda Genuine DW-1 ATF.
   Est. part cost: $40-$120
3. Wiring or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector going to the 3rd clutch pressure switch for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose pins. A multimeter can be used to check for continuity and proper voltage at the connector.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of wiring or clean/replace the connector.
   Est. part cost: $5-$50
4. Incorrect Transmission Fluid Type ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly
   How to confirm: Verify the service history of the vehicle. If a non-Honda ATF was used, it could cause shifting problems and pressure-related codes.
   Typical fix: Perform multiple drain-and-fills with the correct Honda Genuine DW-1 ATF to flush out the incorrect fluid.
   Est. part cost: $80-$200

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM): → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) This is extremely rare. All other possibilities, especially the switch and fluid, should be exhausted before considering the PCM as the cause.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Verify the presence of code P0848 using an OBD-II scanner.
2. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. If low, top it off. If dark, burnt, or overdue for service, plan for a fluid change.
3. Inspect the wiring and connector for the 3rd clutch pressure switch. The switch is located on the front-facing side of the transmission housing, often requiring removal of the air intake assembly and sometimes the battery/battery tray for access.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step 3rd clutch pressure switch replacement guide
4. If wiring appears okay, the most common and time-effective repair is to replace the 3rd clutch pressure switch (Part # 28600-R94-004) and its crush washer.
5. After replacing the switch, perform a transmission fluid drain and fill with approximately 3-4 quarts of Honda DW-1 fluid.
6. Clear the trouble code with the scanner. Disconnecting the battery during the repair will also clear the code but may require an anti-theft radio code to be re-entered.
7. Perform a test drive, allowing the transmission to shift through all gears to confirm the fix. The permanent code may take a full drive cycle to clear from the PCM's memory.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• 3rd Clutch Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch (OEM #28600-R94-004) — This is the direct component identified by the P0848 code on this vehicle and is a very common failure point.
  Trusted brands: Honda (OEM)
  OEM price range: $50-$100
  Aftermarket price range: $20-$50
• Pressure Switch Gasket / Crush Washer (OEM #90471-PW7-A00) — This is a one-time-use crush washer that seals the switch against the transmission case. It must be replaced to prevent leaks. It is often sold separately from the switch.
  Trusted brands: Honda (OEM)
  OEM price range: $2-$5
  Aftermarket price range: $1-$3
• Honda Genuine ATF DW-1 (OEM #08200-9008) — Dirty or low fluid can cause the issue, and a fluid change is recommended with the switch replacement. Using the OEM fluid is critical for Honda transmissions. A drain-and-fill requires approximately 3-4 quarts.
  Trusted brands: Honda (OEM)
  OEM price range: $10-$15 per quart
  Aftermarket price range: N/A

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• While no specific TSB for P0848 on the Pilot is widely published, mechanics and owners frequently reference a TSB for 2020 models, indicating it's a recognized issue by the manufacturer, even if not formally documented for all years.
• The failure is so common that some owners have had to replace the switch more than once during the vehicle's lifetime.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Voltage at 3rd clutch pressure switch connector with switch unplugged, key on engine off (KOEO). — expected: Approximately 5 Volts. Failure: If ~5V is present, the PCM and wiring to the connector are good, pointing to a failed switch. If 0V is present, there is an open in the wiring between the PCM and the switch, or a faulty PCM.
• Continuity between PCM connector terminal and the switch connector terminal. — expected: Continuity should be present (near 0 ohms).. Failure: No continuity (OL) indicates an open/break in the wire between the PCM and the switch connector.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Honda Diagnostic System (HDS): A/T Data List > 3rd PRESSURE SWITCH — This allows a technician to monitor the live status (ON/OFF) of the pressure switch while driving. To diagnose P0848, a technician would drive in 3rd gear and expect to see the switch state change to 'ON'. If it remains 'OFF', it confirms the fault condition reported by the code.
• Honda Diagnostic System (HDS): Jumper SCS Line — This is a service function used in advanced circuit diagnostics to help isolate a break in the wiring between the PCM and the switch connector, as part of the official troubleshooting flowchart.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• 3rd Clutch Pressure Switch Connector — On the front-facing side of the 6-speed automatic transmission case, often with a blue or gray single-pin connector. Access requires removing the air intake assembly and sometimes the battery and tray.. This is the connection point for testing voltage from the PCM and the first place to check for corrosion or damage.
• PCM Connector B, Pin B9 or B25 — At the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The specific pin can vary by exact model and year (e.g., B9 on some Civics, B25 on some Pilots with 6AT).. This is the origin of the signal wire. Technicians test for continuity from this pin to the switch connector to rule out a broken wire in the harness.
• Transmission Ground Cable (G1/G101) — A thick cable bolted from the transmission case directly to the vehicle's chassis/frame, often near the starter or on the side of the transmission.. A poor or corroded main transmission ground can cause a variety of electrical issues and erratic sensor readings, including pressure switch faults. While not a direct cause of a 'Circuit High' code, ensuring it's clean and tight is a best practice during any transmission electrical diagnosis.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube user comment on video 'P0848 HONDA TRANSMISSION FLUID PRESSURE SENSOR/SWITCH...' (2020 Honda Pilot (or similar year with 6-speed AT)) — Check engine light and associated warnings for code P0848.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The initial fix was a warranty replacement of the pressure switch by a Honda dealer.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The same P0848 code and symptoms returned two years after the dealer replacement. The owner replaced the switch again (DIY) with a new OEM part (28600-R94-004), which resolved the issue. The owner noted the replacement part from two years prior was green, and the newest replacement was black, suggesting a part revision.
• Reddit user Ill_Guest_2423 (2004 Honda Pilot (older but relevant powertrain)) — Blinking 'D' indicator light.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replaced both the 3rd and 4th gear pressure switches.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The error remained after replacing the sensors. The actual cause was a shorted wire in the harness connecting to the transmission. A week later, another short in a different wire caused the same issue. Bypassing the bad sections of wire resolved the problem permanently. This highlights that while the switch is the most common cause, wiring faults can produce identical symptoms.
• NHTSA ODI #11437861 (Honda Odyssey - Cross-Manufacturer Reference) — An owner reported the vehicle shudders or jitters during acceleration. A diagnostic tool showed P0848 for a faulty transmission fluid pressure switch alongside a P0301 misfire code.
• NHTSA ODI #11620350 (Honda Odyssey - Cross-Manufacturer Reference) — A report describes a vehicle being scanned and diagnosed with code P0848 after experiencing issues when pressing the accelerator pedal.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 28600-R90-003, 28600-R90-013 → 28600-R94-004 — Standard part evolution and revision by the manufacturer. Anecdotal evidence suggests a color change from green to black on the switch body, possibly indicating an updated, more durable design.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• Fuel Injector Failure 🔴 High — Common enough to warrant a warranty extension. Can cause misfires (P030x codes), rough idle, and emission system warnings (P0420, P0430). (Ref: Warranty Extension per TSBs 20-100 and 21-010, covering injectors for 10 years/150,000 miles for affected VINs.)
• ZF 9-Speed Transmission Issues (2016-2020) 🟠 Medium → Shop Transmission Assembly — Widespread complaints of harsh/jerky shifts, hesitation, and software-related drivability problems on models equipped with the 9-speed automatic. Not directly related to P0848, which affects the 6-speed. (Ref: Subject of multiple software updates and a class-action lawsuit.)
• Infotainment System Glitches 🟠 Medium — Very common complaints of the screen freezing, going black, and speakers making popping or crackling noises. (Ref: Honda TSB #A19030B addresses this, often pointing to loose wiring or faulty MOST bus network connectors.)
• Auto Idle Stop Judder/Failure to Restart 🟡 Low — Some owners report rough restarts after idle stop engages, or in some cases, a failure to restart without cycling the ignition. (Ref: TSBs A23-008 and A23-009 address this issue for certain models.)
• Connecting Rod Bearing Wear (2016-2019) 🔴 High — A recall was issued for a manufacturing error that could cause premature bearing wear, leading to engine seizure. The 2016 model year was particularly affected. (Ref: NHTSA Recall 21V932000.)

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: For this specific repair, buying a used pressure switch is NOT recommended. The part is a known high-failure item with a relatively short lifespan, even for OEM replacements. The cost savings are minimal compared to the risk of receiving a part that is already near failure, and the labor involved in replacing it a second time.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Not applicable as used purchase is not advised.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• 3rd Clutch Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch (28600-R94-004)
• Honda Genuine ATF DW-1

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• While some aftermarket brands exist (e.g., Standard Motor Products, Rostra), the consensus among mechanics and owners is to use the genuine Honda OEM part due to the sensitivity of Honda transmissions and the high failure rate of this specific component. The cost difference is often not worth the risk of premature failure.

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unbranded, low-cost switches found on online marketplaces are frequently cited as unreliable and should be avoided.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P030X — Misfire codes that may appear alongside general 'Emission System' warnings, often related to the fuel injector failures common on this vehicle platform.
• P0420 — Catalytic converter efficiency code that can be triggered by the same fuel injector issues that cause broad emission system warnings on the Pilot.
• P0430 — Bank 2 catalyst code often associated with the fuel injector warranty extension (TSB 20-100) mentioned in the vehicle's known issues.
• P0843 — A related transmission fluid pressure circuit code (High Input) often discussed in the same context as P0848 for Honda 6-speed transmissions.

Frequently Asked Questions