How severe is this DTC?
The severity of this code typically starts as moderate but can quickly escalate to a more severe level if not corrected in a timely manner.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P2709 trouble code may include:
- Transmission slipping
- Transmission overheating
- Transmission shifting harshly
- Reduced fuel economy
- Symptoms that may resemble misfires
- Vehicle enters limp mode
- Check engine light illuminated
What are some common causes of the code?
Causes of this P2709 transmission code may include:
- Insufficient fluid level
- Dirty or contaminated fluid
- Dirty or clogged transmission filter
- Faulty transmission valve body
- Restricted hydraulic passages
- Transmission has internal failure
- Faulty shift solenoid
- Corroded or damaged connector
- Faulty or damaged wiring
- Faulty PCM
What are the troubleshooting steps for P2709?
Before starting the troubleshooting process for any malfunction, you should research Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and transmission. In some circumstances, this can save you significant time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction. You should also check the vehicle’s records to verify when the filter and fluid were last changed if possible.
Fluid and Wiring Inspections
The first step is to ensure the fluid level is correct and inspect the fluid’s condition for any contamination. Next, a thorough visual inspection should be performed to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burn spots.
Then, check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This process should include all wiring and connectors for the transmission solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Based on the configuration, the transmission bonding should be inspected for security and bonding issues.
Advanced Steps
Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to operate accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. Voltage requirements will be highly dependent on the specific year and model of the vehicle. You should follow the troubleshooting chart specific to your vehicle.
Continuity Checks
Continuity checks should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms resistance unless otherwise specified by technical data. Resistance or lack of continuity indicates faulty wiring that is open or shorted and should be repaired or replaced.
What are the common repairs for this code?
- Replacing fluid and filter
- Repairing or replacing a faulty shift solenoid
- Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission valve body
- Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission
- Flushing transmission to clean passages
- Cleaning corrosion from connectors
- Repairing or replacing wiring
- PCM replacement
I hope the information in this article has been helpful in guiding you in the right direction to correct the issue with your shift solenoid circuit error code. This article is strictly informational, and the technical data and service bulletins specific to your vehicle should always take priority.