Common PDK Fault Codes

The Most Common PDK Fault Codes We See (And How We Actually Fix Them)

At MC Squared Autosport, we live and breathe Porsche PDK transmissions. Not only are we repairing and rebuilding PDK’s but we have also designed our own specialty tools and upgrades for all things PDK related. Whether it’s a daily-driven 991 Carrera, a track-prepped GT3, or a high-mileage Cayman S, we see the same handful of fault codes show up week after week.

The good news? With the right diagnostics, parts, and our routine experience almost none of them require a $25,000–$35,000 transmission replacement.

Here’s our real world hit list of the most frequent PDK codes, grouped by what’s actually going on:

1. Distance Sensor / Shift-Rod Issues

P1731 – P1734 (Distance sensor plausibility, shift rod 1-4)
The transmission is seeing more clutch slip than the recorded clutch mileage expects. Typical fix: PDK fluid + filter service, clutch recalibration with PIWIS. High-mileage or tracked cars may need a new clutch pack.

2. Speed Sensor Faults

P1743, P1744 – Input speed sensor plausibility (Clutch 1 or Clutch 2)
P0730 – Incorrect gear ratio
P1745 – Input shaft overspeed
These internal speed sensors live inside the transmission and are a common failure.
Typical fix: Replace the failed sensor(s)

3. Pressure-Related Codes

P0841, P0846, P0871 – Hydraulic pressure sensor implausible
P17B1, P17B2 – Clutch pressure too low / activation implausible
P17B3, P17B4 – Pressure stays too high (stuck regulator)
P17BB – P17BE – Clutch cannot be opened
Root cause is almost always a failed pressure regulator solenoid or leaking seals in the mechatronics unit.
Typical fix: Replace the specific solenoid(s) or reseal the mechatronics.

4. Temperature Sensor Codes

P0711 – Transmission fluid temperature sensor implausible
P172D – Temperature gradient error
P17F0 – P17F2 – Over-temperature (even when cold) The temp sensor is integrated into the mechatronics unit and fails regularly.
Typical fix: Sensor swap once the unit is on the bench.

5. Mechanical / Hydraulic Gear Selection Faults

P17D0 – P17D9 – Hydraulic gear selection system faults
P1779 – P177F – Synchronization faults, gear cannot be disengaged
P17E0 – Hydraulic emergency hold cannot be cancelled (mechanical blockage)
These can be caused by low fluid, internal leaks, or a physical blockage in the shift forks.
Typical fix: Fluid service + bleed first, then deeper hydraulic repair if needed.

The Bottom Line

Most of the PDK warnings you’re seeing fall into one of the categories above, and every single one is repairable in-house without replacing the entire transmission.

If your Porsche dash is lit up with a PDK fault, bring it to the shop that specializes in them. We’ll pull the live data, tell you exactly what’s failed, and give you a realistic quote for a fraction of what the dealer wants for a new transmission.

Stop driving in limp mode. Get it fixed right the first time.

Have a code that’s not on this list? Shoot us a message and we are happy to tell you what it usually means on your specific model.