P0944 fault code: what it means

P0944: Transmission pump lost prime: the gearbox oil pump has stopped building pressure.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Safety risk

Usual causes, most likely first

very low fluid
pump or pressure system failure
blocked filter

P0944 by make

Ford

Transmission pump lost prime: the gearbox oil pump has stopped building pressure.

Usual causes: very low fluid; pump or pressure system failure; blocked filter

Jeep

Transmission hydraulic pressure unit loss of pressure: the gearbox oil pump is not giving enough pressure. Poor or no shifting.

Usual causes: low transmission fluid; blocked transmission filter; failing transmission oil pump; wiring or connector fault

What the repair usually costs

Automatic transmission fluid service, drain and refill (car)NZ$210–NZ$470 · A$210–A$450
Automatic transmission fluid service (SUV / ute / 4WD)NZ$300–NZ$680 · A$290–A$650
Automatic transmission service with pan / filter (European ZF / Mercedes)NZ$610–NZ$1,240 · A$570–A$1,160
CVT fluid service (car)NZ$250–NZ$580 · A$250–A$550

Not sure what P0944 means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.