P2787 – Clutch Temperature Too High (OBD2)
P2787 means "Clutch Temperature Too High". Clutch pedal switches and clutch position sensors tell the control units when the clutch is pressed – for starting, cruise control, start-stop and automated clutches; these codes cover them and the clutch actuator.
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P2787 quick summary
| Fault code | P2787 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Clutch Temperature Too High |
| System | Powertrain (Engine & Transmission) |
| Vehicles | Generic OBD2 |
| Severity | Medium |
| Can I drive? | Usually yes, but the engine may not start, cruise control and start-stop may not work. With excessive clutch slip, avoid heavy loads. |
| Repair cost | €15 – €1,500 |
How clutch switches and clutch position sensors work
Manual cars have one or two clutch pedal switches (A, B) or a position sensor on the pedal. They allow the engine to start only with the clutch pressed, cancel cruise control, control start-stop and smooth engine speed during gear changes.
Automated manual and some dual-clutch systems use a clutch actuator and a clutch position sensor; codes P0805–P0811 and P0900–P0903 cover their position sensing, control error and excessive slip.
A faulty clutch switch can stop the engine from starting, disable cruise control or start-stop, and cause jerky behaviour when changing gear.
Symptoms of P2787
- Engine does not start even with the clutch pressed
- Cruise control or start-stop not working
- Engine speed flare when changing gear
- Clutch slipping (automated clutches)
- Check Engine light on
Most common causes of P2787 (most likely first)
Mechanic's Pro Tip
On automated manual gearboxes, always run the clutch learning routine after any clutch, actuator or battery work – most 'clutch slip' complaints after repairs come from a missing calibration.
1.Faulty or misadjusted clutch pedal switch
Most likely2.Faulty clutch position sensor
3.Worn clutch (slip codes)
4.Clutch actuator fault (automated manual)
5.Wiring or connector fault
Step-by-step diagnostic guide
- 1
Read codes and switch status
Read codes and watch the clutch switch or position signal in live data while pressing the pedal.
- 2
Check switch adjustment
Check the switch position on the pedal bracket and the pedal stop.
- 3
Measure the switch or sensor
Check the switch contacts or sensor voltage over the pedal travel.
Multimeter: Position sensors: signal changing smoothly across the travel (for example about 0.5–4.5 V).
- 4
Check the clutch
For slip codes, check the clutch for wear and the actuator for leaks or faults.
- 5
Replace and calibrate
Replace the faulty part and run the clutch or actuator calibration with the scan tool if required.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with P2787?
Usually yes, but the engine may not start, cruise control and start-stop may not work. With excessive clutch slip, avoid heavy loads.
How much does it cost to fix P2787?
Typical repair costs are 15 € – 1500 €, depending on the cause and the vehicle. The most common fixes are: faulty or misadjusted clutch pedal switch; faulty clutch position sensor; worn clutch (slip codes). Always confirm the cause with the tests above before buying parts.
Why won't my car start with the clutch pressed?
If the clutch switch does not report 'pressed', the starter is blocked for safety.
Can a clutch switch affect cruise control?
Yes. Cruise control switches off when the clutch is pressed, so a faulty switch can disable it.
What is the difference between P2787 and similar codes?
P2787 belongs to a group of codes for the same component that differ in the type or location of the fault: P0834 – Clutch Pedal Switch B Circuit Low; P0835 – Clutch Pedal Switch B Circuit High; P0900 – Clutch Actuator Circuit / Open; P0901 – Clutch Actuator Circuit Range/Performance; P0902 – Clutch Actuator Circuit Low; P0903 – Clutch Actuator Circuit High. The tests on this page apply to the whole group; the type of fault tells you where to start.
Related fault codes
This guide is for information only. Working on vehicles can be dangerous — if you are unsure, have the car checked by a qualified mechanic. Values can differ between model years; always check the manufacturer's repair information.