Limp mode is a safety feature that activates when your car’s engine or transmission detects a fault. It limits the engine’s power and RPM and may lock the transmission in a specific gear.
Limp mode is designed to protect your car from further damage, but it can also be very frustrating and inconvenient.
If you want to disable limp mode permanently, you need to find and fix the root cause of the problem. Here are some steps you can follow to do that:
How To Disable Limp Mode Permanently?
#1. Turn off and on the car
The easiest and most common way to turn off limp mode is to turn off the car and wait for about 30 seconds before turning it back on. This will erase any small errors that may have caused limp mode.
But this way may not work if the problem is big or keeps happening, and limp mode may come back after you drive for a while.
#2. Use a scanner
A scanner is a device that can read and erase the codes that tell you why your car is in limp mode. You can plug it into a port under your dashboard and use it to scan for any codes that show the problem.
You can then erase the codes and turn off limp mode using the scanner. But this way may also not work if the problem is not fixed, and the codes may come back after you drive for a while.
#3. Fix gear problems
Gear problems such as low or dirty fluid, worn out clutch, broken solenoid, etc., can also cause limp mode.
If you have a gear problem, you need to fix it as soon as possible to prevent more damage and turn off limp mode forever.
But fixing gear problems can be very expensive and difficult, and you may need to take your car to someone who specializes in gears.
#4. Trick limp mode
Tricking limp mode is a dangerous and illegal way that involves changing or messing with your car’s computer or wires.
This way involves cutting or disconnecting wires, putting resistors or capacitors, or using software or devices that fool the computer into thinking that everything is fine.
Tricking the limp mode can turn it off forever, but it can also ruin your car’s electric system, make your car run worse, fail pollution tests, lose your warranty, or even start a fire.
#5. Scan for trouble codes.
The first thing you need to do is to scan your car’s computer for trouble codes. These codes will tell you what kind of fault triggered limp mode, and where to look for the problem.
You can use an OBD2 scanner to read the codes or take your car to a mechanic who can do it for you.
Some common codes that cause limp mode are P0700 (transmission control system malfunction), P0100 (mass air flow sensor circuit malfunction), P0113 (intake air temperature sensor circuit high input), and P0234 (turbocharger over-boost condition).
#6. Check the oil and coolant levels
Low oil or coolant levels can cause your engine to overheat or lose lubrication, which can trigger limp mode. Check the dipstick and the coolant reservoir to see if they are at the proper levels.
If they are low, top them up with the recommended fluids. Also, look for any signs of leaks or contamination in the oil or coolant, such as a milky or foamy appearance, or metal shavings.
These could indicate a serious problem, such as a blown head gasket or a cracked engine block.
#7. Inspect the wiring and connectors
Faulty wiring or loose connectors can cause intermittent or incorrect signals to the engine or transmission control units, which can cause limp mode.
Inspect the wiring harnesses and connectors for any signs of damage, corrosion, or wear.
Pay special attention to the wires and connectors that go to the sensors, solenoids, and actuators that are related to the trouble codes you found. If you find any problems, repair or replace them as needed.
#8. Replace faulty sensors or components
Sometimes, the limp mode is caused by a bad sensor or component that sends wrong or no data to the computer.
For example, a faulty mass air flow sensor can cause your engine to run too rich or too lean, which can damage the catalytic converter and trigger limp mode.
A faulty turbocharger wastegate can cause your engine to overboost or under boost, which can also trigger limp mode.
To fix these problems, you need to replace the faulty sensors or components with new ones.
#9. Clear the trouble codes and test drive your car
After you have fixed the problem, you need to clear the trouble codes from your car’s computer.
You can do this by using an OBD2 scanner, disconnecting the battery for a few minutes, or driving your car for a certain distance until the codes clear themselves.
Then, test drive your car and see if it runs normally and if limp mode is gone. If not, you may need to repeat the steps above until you find and fix the problem.
Limp mode is a useful feature that protects your car from further damage, but it can also be annoying and limit your driving experience. By following these steps, you can disable limp mode permanently and enjoy your car’s full performance again.
How Long Can You Drive a Car In Limp Mode?
The answer to this question depends on the severity and cause of the problem that triggered limp mode.
In some cases, you may be able to drive in limp mode for a short distance or time until you reach your garage or a safe place. In other cases, you may not be able to drive at all or only at very low speeds.
Driving in limp mode for too long can cause more damage to your car, such as:
- Overheating
- Catalytic converter failure
- Transmission failure
- Engine failure
These can result in costly repairs or even total loss of your car.
Therefore, it is best to have your car checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible if it goes into limp mode. You can either drive it to your garage if the issue is not severe or have it towed if it is unsafe to drive.
A mechanic can diagnose the problem using an OBD2 scanner and perform the necessary repairs. The cost of fixing limp mode will vary depending on the cause and extent of the damage.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult a qualified mechanic before attempting any repairs on your car.
