P2887 is an OBD-II code that indicates an electrical fault in the park lock pawl actuator circuit of an automatic transmission. The park lock pawl is the mechanical component that physically locks the transmission output when the shifter is in Park, and the actuator is the electrically controlled device that engages it. The PCM monitors this circuit and sets P2887 when voltage, resistance, or signal values fall outside the expected range.
The internal coil or motor of the actuator wears out or shorts, which is the single most common cause of this code. Resistance and voltage tests will usually confirm the failure.
Broken wires, chafed insulation, or loose/pin-fit terminals at the actuator plug interrupt the circuit. This is nearly as common as the actuator failure itself and should always be inspected first.
If the mechanical link between the shifter and the park lock mechanism is worn, stretched, or out of adjustment, the actuator cannot complete its travel and the PCM detects a fault.
The actuator requires adequate voltage to operate. A weak battery or failing alternator can produce out-of-range voltage signals that trigger the code even when the actuator is functional.
An incorrect input from the range sensor can make the PCM believe the actuator circuit is malfunctioning when the real issue is the position feedback signal.
Control module failure is uncommon for this code but possible. It should only be considered after every wiring, connector, and actuator test has ruled out the other causes.
The definition is universal; the diagnostics are engine-specific. Open your vehicle for the codes documented for it:
No. The PCM is one of the least likely causes. The vast majority of P2887 faults are traced to the actuator itself, its wiring and connector, the shift linkage, or low system voltage. Replacing or reprogramming the PCM before proving the rest of the circuit is sound is a common and expensive mistake.
If the vehicle will shift out of Park and the transmission operates normally, it can usually be driven to a repair facility. However, if Park will not engage reliably, the vehicle should not be left unattended on any slope, and towing on the drive wheels may damage the transmission.
No. Clearing the code only erases the stored fault and turns the light off temporarily. The code will return as soon as the PCM re-detects the circuit condition during its next self-test.
Not necessarily. Most repairs involve parts that are external to the transmission case, such as the actuator, wiring, connector, or shift linkage. The transmission itself only needs to be opened if the park pawl mechanism inside the case is mechanically damaged.