Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
DTC P171E: General Description
The park pawl actuator driver unit controls the park pawl actuator to switch to and unlock the P position. The park pawl actuator driver unit performs an initial learning by the command from the powertrain control module (PCM). If the initial learning for the park pawl actuator driver unit has not been completed for a set time after the initial learning command is output from the PCM, the PCM receives a malfunction from the park pawl actuator driver unit and stores a DTC.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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