P288BPark Lock/Pawl Actuator Circuit Performance
- Generic OBD-II code · Powertrain
- Turns on the check-engine light
- Matters for the ITP
- Can trigger limp mode
- Needs a drive cycle to confirm a fix
- How the car detects it
- P288B means the park lock actuator is electrically intact but does not do what it is told, for example the lock fails to move in time. Ford's 2024-25 summary calls it functionally stuck off on its front-drive 8-speeds and mechanically stuck off on the TR9070 dual-clutch box. Several bulletins cure it with software: Ford 21-2107 for the 2020 Escape with 8F24, which could drop into Park during start-stop and lit the wrench lamp; Nissan NTB20-038 for the 2020 Titan, where two attempts were needed to leave Park; Audi 2080044 for 2025 A5 and Q5 models that could not select P; and FCA for the 2017-18 Pacifica Hybrid, where P288B became a permanent code that blocked smog checks. Only if it returns after an update is the actuator or wiring suspect.
- What you may notice
- P cannot be selected or needs several attempts to leave
- Unexpected shift to P during start-stop
- Warning lamp or MIL
- Likely causes
- LikelyControl software needing an update (Ford, Nissan, Audi, FCA)
- PossibleSluggish or sticking park lock actuator or pawl mechanism
- RareLow supply voltage or poor connection under load
- Inspection (ITP)
- Matters for the ITP. While the check-engine light is on, the car fails the emissions check.
- Repair
- Medium · Usually a job for a workshop.Typical cost: €50 – €1,800
- Related codes
Explanation from obdex (CC0), exactly as the app shows it. Guidance only; confirm with a workshop.