What does it mean?

This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to OBD-II vehicles with an automatic transmission. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Honda, BMW, Saturn, Land Rover, Acura, Nissan, Saturn, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.

In most cases, automatic transmissions will incorporate at least three pressure control solenoids known as solenoids A, B, and C. Newer transmissions tend to have more speeds and more solenoids. Various trouble codes are associated with the “B” solenoid control circuit, and some of the most common include P0964, P0965, P0966, and P0967. When the OBD-II trouble code P0966 is set, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a problem with the “B” transmission pressure control solenoid control circuit. The specific code set is based on the specific malfunction detected by the PCM.

An automatic transmission is controlled by bands and clutches that change gears by having fluid pressure in the right place at the right time. The purpose of the transmission pressure control solenoids is to regulate the fluid pressure so that the automatic transmission operates correctly and shifts smoothly. The PCM monitors the pressure inside the solenoids and directs fluid to various hydraulic circuits that change the gear ratio precisely as needed.

The P0966 code is set by the PCM when it detects that the “B” pressure control solenoid control circuit is experiencing a low voltage condition and is therefore not functioning properly.

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code normally starts as moderate, but it can escalate to a more severe level quickly when not corrected in a timely manner. In circumstances that cause the transmission to slam into gear, permanent internal damage can be caused, making the issue serious.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0966 trouble code may include:

• Increased fuel consumption
• Check engine light illuminated
• Transmission overheating
• Transmission slipping during gear shifts
• Transmission shifts hard (gear slam)
• Potential missed symptoms
• Transmission put into limp mode by the PCM

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P0966 transmission code may include:

• Faulty pressure control solenoid
• Contaminated transmission fluid
• Restricted transmission filter
• Faulty transmission pump
• Faulty transmission valve body
• Blocked hydraulic passages
• Corroded or damaged connector
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P0966?

Before starting the troubleshooting process for any malfunction, you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and transmission. In some situations, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

Fluid and Wiring Inspections

The first step is to check the fluid level and examine the condition of the fluid for contamination. Before changing the fluid, you should (if possible) check the vehicle’s records to verify the last time the filter and fluid were changed.

A detailed visual inspection to check the condition of the wiring for obvious defects is next. Check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This should include all wiring and connectors for the transmission pressure control solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Depending on the specific configuration, the transmission pump may be electrically or mechanically driven.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps always become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to operate accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. You should always obtain troubleshooting data specific to your vehicle before proceeding with advanced steps. Voltage requirements vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Fluid pressure requirements may also vary depending on the transmission design and configuration.

Continuity Checks

Unless otherwise indicated in the technical data, normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Continuity checks should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit to avoid short-circuiting the circuit and causing further damage. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or short-circuited and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

• Replacing the fluid and filter
• Replacing the faulty pressure control solenoid
• Repairing or replacing a faulty transmission pump
• Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission valve body
• Cleaning the passages
• Cleaning corrosion from connectors
• Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
• Flashing or replacing a faulty PCM

Possible misdiagnosis may include:

1. Engine misfire issue
2. Transmission pump malfunction
3. Internal transmission problem
4. Transmission problem

Hopefully, the information contained in this article will help you fix the issue with your P0966 pressure control solenoid diagnostic trouble code(s). This article is strictly for informational purposes, and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle will always take precedence.

What does it mean?

This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to OBD-II vehicles with an automatic transmission. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Honda, BMW, Saturn, Land Rover, Acura, Nissan, Saturn, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.

In most cases, automatic transmissions will incorporate at least three pressure control solenoids known as solenoids A, B, and C. Newer transmissions tend to have more speeds and more solenoids. Various trouble codes are associated with the “B” solenoid control circuit, and some of the most common include P0964, P0965, P0966, and P0967. When the OBD-II trouble code P0967 is set, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a problem with the “B” transmission pressure control solenoid control circuit. The specific code set is based on the specific malfunction detected by the PCM.

An automatic transmission is controlled by bands and clutches that change gears by having fluid pressure in the right place at the right time. The purpose of the transmission pressure control solenoids is to regulate the fluid pressure so that the automatic transmission operates correctly and shifts smoothly. The PCM monitors the pressure inside the solenoids and directs fluid to various hydraulic circuits that change the gear ratio precisely as needed.

The P0967 code is set by the PCM when it detects that the “B” pressure control solenoid control circuit is experiencing a high voltage condition and is therefore not functioning properly.

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code normally starts as moderate, but it can escalate to a more severe level quickly when not corrected in a timely manner. Under circumstances that cause the transmission to slam into gear, permanent internal damage can be caused, making the problem severe.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0967 trouble code may include:

1. Increased fuel consumption
2. Check engine light activated
3. Transmission overheating
4. Transmission slipping during gear shifts
5. Transmission shifting hard (gear slam)
6. Potential missed symptoms
7. Transmission put into limp mode by the PCM

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P0967 transmission code may include:

• Faulty pressure control solenoid
• Contaminated transmission fluid
• Restricted transmission filter
• Faulty transmission pump
• Faulty transmission valve body
• Blocked hydraulic passages
• Corroded or damaged connector
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P0967?

Before starting the troubleshooting process for any malfunction, you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and transmission. In some situations, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

Fluid and Wiring Inspections

The first step is to check the fluid level and examine the condition of the fluid for contamination. Before changing the fluid, you should (if possible) check the vehicle’s records to verify the last time the filter and fluid were changed.

A detailed visual inspection to check the condition of the wiring for obvious defects is next. Check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This should include all wiring and connectors for the transmission pressure control solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Depending on the specific configuration, the transmission pump may be electrically or mechanically driven.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps always become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to operate accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. You should always obtain troubleshooting data specific to your vehicle before proceeding with advanced steps. Voltage requirements vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Fluid pressure requirements may also vary depending on the transmission design and configuration.

Continuity Checks

Unless otherwise indicated in the technical data, normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Continuity checks should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit to avoid short-circuiting the circuit and causing more damage. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

• Replacing fluid and filter
• Replacing the faulty pressure control solenoid
• Repairing or replacing a faulty transmission pump
• Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission valve body
• Cleaning the passages
• Cleaning corrosion from connectors
• Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
• Flashing or replacing faulty PCM

Possible misdiagnosis may include:

• Engine misfire issue
• Transmission pump malfunction
• Internal transmission problem
• Transmission problem

Hopefully, the information contained in this article will help you resolve the issue with your P0967 “B” pressure control solenoid diagnostic trouble code(s). This article is strictly for informational purposes, and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle will always take precedence.

What does it mean?

This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to OBD-II vehicles with an automatic transmission. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Honda, BMW, Saturn, Land Rover, Acura, Nissan, Saturn, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.

In most cases, automatic transmissions will incorporate at least three pressure control solenoids known as solenoids A, B, and C. Newer transmissions tend to have more speeds and more solenoids. Various fault codes are associated with the “C” solenoid control circuit, and some of the most common include P0968, P0969, P0970, and P0971. When the OBD-II fault code P0968 is set, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a problem with the transmission pressure control solenoid “C” control circuit. The specific code set is based on the specific malfunction detected by the PCM.

An automatic transmission is controlled by bands and clutches that change gears by having fluid pressure in the right place at the right time. The purpose of the transmission pressure control solenoids is to regulate the fluid pressure so that the automatic transmission operates correctly and shifts smoothly. The PCM monitors the pressure inside the solenoids and directs fluid to various hydraulic circuits that change the gear ratio precisely as needed.

The P0968 code is set by the PCM when it detects that the pressure control solenoid “C” control circuit is open.

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code normally starts as moderate, but it can escalate to a more severe level quickly if not corrected in a timely manner. Under circumstances that cause the transmission to slam into gear, permanent internal damage can be caused, making the problem serious.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0968 fault code may include:

• Increased fuel consumption
• Check engine light activated
• Transmission overheating
• Transmission slipping during gear shifts
• Transmission shifting hard (gear slam)
• Potential missed symptoms
• Transmission put into limp mode by the PCM

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P0968 transmission code may include:

• Faulty pressure control solenoid
• Contaminated transmission fluid
• Restricted transmission filter
• Faulty transmission pump
• Faulty transmission valve body
• Blocked hydraulic passages
• Corroded or damaged connector
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P0968?

Before starting the troubleshooting process for any malfunction, you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and transmission. In some situations, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

Fluid and Wiring Inspections

The first step is to check the fluid level and examine the condition of the fluid for contamination. Before changing the fluid, you should (if possible) check the vehicle’s records to verify the last time the filter and fluid were changed.

A detailed visual inspection to check the condition of the wiring for obvious defects is next. Check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This should include all wiring and connectors for the transmission pressure control solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Depending on the specific configuration, the transmission pump may be electrically or mechanically driven.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps always become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to operate accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. You should always obtain troubleshooting data specific to your vehicle before proceeding with advanced steps. Voltage requirements vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Fluid pressure requirements may also vary depending on the transmission design and configuration.
Continuity Checks

Unless otherwise indicated in the technical data, normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Continuity checks should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit to avoid short-circuiting the circuit and causing further damage. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

• Replacing fluid and filter
• Replacing the faulty pressure control solenoid
• Repairing or replacing a faulty transmission pump
• Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission valve body
• Flushing the transmission to clean the passages
• Cleaning corrosion from connectors
• Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
• Flashing or replacing a faulty PCM

A possible misdiagnosis may include:

1. Engine misfire problem
2. Transmission pump malfunction
3. Internal transmission problem
4. Transmission problem

Hopefully, the information contained in this article will help you fix the issue with your P0968 pressure control solenoid control circuit diagnostic trouble code(s). This article is strictly for informational purposes, and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle will always take precedence.

What does it mean?

This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to OBD-II vehicles with an automatic transmission. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Honda, BMW, Saturn, Land Rover, Acura, Nissan, Saturn, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.

In most cases, automatic transmissions will incorporate at least three pressure control solenoids known as solenoids A, B, and C. Newer transmissions tend to have more gears and more solenoids. Various fault codes are associated with the “C” solenoid control circuit, and some of the most common include P0968, P0969, P0970, and P0971. When the OBD-II fault code P0969 is set, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a problem with the transmission pressure control solenoid “C” control circuit. The specific code set is based on the specific malfunction detected by the PCM.

An automatic transmission is controlled by bands and clutches that change gears by having fluid pressure in the right place at the right time. The purpose of the transmission pressure control solenoids is to regulate the fluid pressure so that the automatic transmission operates correctly and shifts smoothly. The PCM monitors the pressure inside the solenoids and directs fluid to various hydraulic circuits that change the gear ratio precisely as needed.

The P0969 code is set by the PCM when it detects that the “C” pressure control solenoid control circuit is outside the normal range for optimal performance.

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code normally starts as moderate, but it can escalate to a more severe level quickly when not corrected in a timely manner. In circumstances that cause the transmission to slam into gear, permanent internal damage can be caused, making the problem serious.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0969 fault code may include:

1. Increased fuel consumption
2. Check engine light activated
3. Transmission overheating
4. Transmission slipping during gear shifts
5. Transmission shifting hard (gear slam)
6. Potential missed symptoms
7. Transmission put into limp mode by the PCM

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P0969 transmission code may include:

• Faulty pressure control solenoid
• Contaminated transmission fluid
• Restricted transmission filter
• Faulty transmission pump
• Faulty transmission valve body
• Blocked hydraulic passages
• Corroded or damaged connector
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P0969?

Before starting the troubleshooting process for any malfunction, you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and transmission. In some situations, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

Fluid and Wiring Inspections

The first step is to check the fluid level and examine the condition of the fluid for contamination. Before changing the fluid, you should (if possible) check the vehicle’s records to verify the last time the filter and fluid were changed.

A detailed visual inspection to check the condition of the wiring for obvious defects is next. Check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This should include all wiring and connectors for the transmission pressure control solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Depending on the specific configuration, the transmission pump may be electrically or mechanically driven.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps always become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to operate accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. You should always obtain troubleshooting data specific to your vehicle before proceeding with advanced steps. Voltage requirements vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Fluid pressure requirements may also vary depending on the transmission design and configuration.

Continuity Checks

Unless otherwise indicated in the technical data, normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Continuity checks should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit to avoid short-circuiting the circuit and causing more damage. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

• Replacing fluid and filter
• Replacing the faulty pressure control solenoid
• Repairing or replacing a faulty transmission pump
• Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission valve body
• Flushing the transmission to clean the passages
• Cleaning connector corrosion
• Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
• Flashing or replacing a faulty PCM

A possible misdiagnosis may include:

• Engine misfire issue
• Transmission pump malfunction
• Internal transmission problem
• Transmission problem

Hopefully, the information contained in this article will help you fix the issue with your P0969 pressure control solenoid control circuit diagnostic trouble code(s). This article is strictly for informational purposes, and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle will always take precedence.

What does it mean?

This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to OBD-II vehicles with an automatic transmission. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Honda, BMW, Saturn, Land Rover, Acura, Nissan, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.

In most cases, automatic transmissions will incorporate at least three pressure control solenoids known as solenoids A, B, and C. Newer transmissions tend to have more gears and more solenoids. Various fault codes are associated with the “C” solenoid control circuit, and some of the most common include P0968, P0969, P0970, and P0971. When the OBD-II fault code P0970 is set, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a problem with the “C” transmission pressure control solenoid control circuit. The specific code set is based on the specific malfunction detected by the PCM.

An automatic transmission is controlled by bands and clutches that change gears by having fluid pressure in the right place at the right time. The purpose of the transmission pressure control solenoids is to regulate the fluid pressure so that the automatic transmission operates correctly and shifts smoothly. The PCM monitors the pressure inside the solenoids and directs fluid to various hydraulic circuits that change the gear ratio precisely as needed.

The P0970 code is set by the PCM when it detects that the “C” pressure control solenoid control circuit is experiencing a low voltage condition and is therefore not functioning properly.

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code normally starts as moderate, but it can escalate to a more severe level quickly if not corrected in a timely manner. Under circumstances that cause the transmission to slam into gear, permanent internal damage can be caused, making the problem severe.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0970 fault code may include:

• Increased fuel consumption
• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Transmission overheating
• Transmission slipping during gear shifts
• Transmission shifts hard (gear slam)
• Potential missed symptoms
• Transmission put into limp mode by the PCM

What are some of the common causes of the code?

Causes of this P0970 transmission code may include:

• Faulty pressure control solenoid
• Contaminated transmission fluid
• Restricted transmission filter
• Faulty transmission pump
• Faulty transmission valve body
• Blocked hydraulic passages
• Corroded or damaged connector
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P0970?

Before starting the troubleshooting process for any malfunction, you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and transmission. In some situations, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

Fluid and Wiring Inspections

The first step is to check the fluid level and examine the condition of the fluid for contamination. Before changing the fluid, you should (if possible) check the vehicle’s records to verify the last time the filter and fluid were changed.

A detailed visual inspection to check the condition of the wiring for obvious defects is next. Check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This should include all wiring and connectors for the transmission pressure control solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Depending on the specific configuration, the transmission pump may be electrically or mechanically driven.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps always become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. You should always obtain troubleshooting data specific to your vehicle before proceeding with advanced steps. Voltage requirements vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Fluid pressure requirements may also vary depending on the transmission design and configuration.

Continuity Checks

Unless otherwise specified in the technical data, normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Continuity checks should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit to avoid shorting the circuit and causing further damage. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

1. Replacing the fluid and filter
2. Replacing the faulty pressure control solenoid
3. Repairing or replacing a faulty transmission pump
4. Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission valve body
5. Cleaning the passages
6. Cleaning corrosion from connectors
7. Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
8. Flashing or replacing a faulty PCM

Possible misdiagnosis may include:

1. Engine misfire issue
2. Transmission pump malfunction
3. Internal transmission problem
4. Transmission problem

Hopefully, the information contained in this article will help you fix the issue with your P0970 pressure control solenoid control circuit diagnostic trouble code(s). This article is strictly for informational purposes, and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle will always take precedence.

What does it mean?

This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to OBD-II vehicles with an automatic transmission. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Honda, BMW, Saturn, Land Rover, Acura, Nissan, Saturn, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.

In most cases, automatic transmissions will incorporate at least three pressure control solenoids known as solenoids A, B, and C. Newer transmissions tend to have more gears and more solenoids. Various fault codes are associated with the “C” solenoid control circuit, and some of the most common include P0968, P0969, P0970, and P0971. When the OBD-II fault code P0971 is set, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a problem with the transmission pressure control solenoid “C” control circuit. The specific code set is based on the specific malfunction detected by the PCM.

An automatic transmission is controlled by bands and clutches that change gears by having fluid pressure in the right place at the right time. The purpose of the transmission pressure control solenoids is to regulate the fluid pressure so that the automatic transmission operates correctly and shifts smoothly. The PCM monitors the pressure inside the solenoids and directs fluid to various hydraulic circuits that change the gear ratio precisely as needed.

The P0971 code is set by the PCM when it detects that the pressure control solenoid “C” control circuit is experiencing a high voltage condition and is therefore not functioning properly.

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code normally starts as moderate, but it can escalate to a more severe level quickly when not corrected in a timely manner. Under circumstances that cause the transmission to slam into gear, permanent internal damage can be caused, making the problem serious.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P0971 fault code may include:

• Increased fuel consumption
• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Transmission overheating
• Transmission slipping during gear shifts
• Transmission shifts harshly (gear slam)
• Potential missed symptoms
• Transmission put into limp mode by the PCM

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P0971 transmission code may include:

• Faulty pressure control solenoid
• Contaminated transmission fluid
• Restricted transmission filter
• Faulty transmission pump
• Faulty transmission valve body
• Blocked hydraulic passages
• Corroded or damaged connector
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P0971?

Before starting the troubleshooting process for any malfunction, you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and transmission. In some situations, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

Fluid and Wiring Inspections

The first step is to check the fluid level and examine the condition of the fluid for contamination. Before changing the fluid, you should (if possible) check the vehicle’s records to verify the last time the filter and fluid were changed.

A detailed visual inspection to check the condition of the wiring for obvious defects is next. Check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This should include all wiring and connectors for the transmission pressure control solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Depending on the specific configuration, the transmission pump may be electrically or mechanically driven.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps always become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. You should always obtain troubleshooting data specific to your vehicle before proceeding with advanced steps. Voltage requirements vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Fluid pressure requirements may also vary depending on the transmission design and configuration.

Continuity Checks

Unless otherwise indicated in the technical data, normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Continuity checks should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit to avoid short-circuiting the circuit and causing further damage. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

1. Replacing the fluid and filter
2. Replacing the faulty pressure control solenoid
3. Repairing or replacing a faulty transmission pump
4. Repairing or replacing the faulty transmission valve body
5. Cleaning the passages
6. Cleaning corrosion from connectors
7. Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
8. Flashing or replacing a faulty PCM

A possible misdiagnosis may include:

1. Engine misfire issue
2. Transmission pump malfunction
3. Internal transmission problem
4. Transmission problem

Hopefully, the information contained in this article will help you fix the issue with your P0971 pressure control solenoid control circuit diagnostic trouble code(s). This article is strictly for informational purposes, and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle will always take precedence.

Whenever your transmission shifts gears, a series of shift solenoids are activated and deactivated by the ECU/TCM. These small electromechanical devices are responsible for directing pressurized transmission fluid to move the correct parts so the next gear shift can occur. If the shift solenoid labeled “A” does not operate according to the preprogrammed parameters stored in the ECU, a DTC P0972 will be triggered.

How severe is the code?

Diagnostic code P0972 is extremely severe, even if the symptoms do not seem very serious at first. Transmission solenoid issues can eventually prevent the transmission from shifting, which could leave you stranded.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0972 include:

• Harsh shifting
• Transmission cannot shift into gear

Causes

• Transmission fluid level is too low
• Transmission fluid is too dirty
• Damaged/broken wires
• Broken/corroded connectors
• Shift solenoid failure

How to diagnose the code?

The first step in diagnosing an OBDII fault code P0972 is to first check the level and condition of the transmission fluid. If it is too dirty or too low, the shift solenoids will not be able to function properly. Next, the wiring and connectors along the transmission wiring harness need to be inspected for signs of damage and corrosion. If everything has been checked up to this point, the shift solenoids will need to be tested.

What repairs will fix P0972?

• Service the transmission
• Replace or repair damaged wires/connectors
• Replace the shift solenoid

Definition of Code P0973

Fault code P0973 detects an error with the shift solenoid A control circuit.

What Does Code P0973 Mean?

Code P0973 is a generic fault code that indicates a problem with shift solenoid A. Shift solenoids are controlled by the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and are activated and deactivated to change gear ratios and allow smooth shifting in the automatic transmission. Depending on the vehicle’s make and model, shift solenoid valve A may control the transmission’s clutches, brakes, or bands. When the TCM detects abnormal readings from the shift solenoid, the control circuit will be shut down, and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will store fault code P0973.

What Causes Code P0973?

Fault code P0973 can be caused by several different things:

• Faulty shift solenoid A
• Damaged wires or connectors in the system
• Defective control circuit
• Low or dirty transmission fluid
• In rare cases, a faulty TCM, PCM, or Engine Control Module (ECM)

What Are the Symptoms of Code P0973?

When code P0973 is detected, the vehicle’s check engine light will likely illuminate on the dashboard. The vehicle may experience difficulty or inability to shift into certain gears, leading to driving issues such as harsh shifting and uneven acceleration. It is also common for fuel efficiency to decrease.

How Does a Mechanic Diagnose Code P0973?

Code P0973 will be addressed using a standard OBD-II fault code scanner. A reputable technician will review freeze frame data to assess the code and check for additional codes. If multiple fault codes are detected, they should be inspected in the order they appear on the scanner. The fault codes will then be reset, and the vehicle restarted so the mechanic can see if the code remains detected. If the code disappears, it is most likely the result of an intermittent error or possibly a false detection.

If the code persists, the mechanic will need to visually inspect the transmission’s electrical components. Wires and connectors should be checked for short circuits, open circuits, or damage and replaced if necessary. The transmission fluid will then be checked, with low levels topped up and dirty fluid replaced. If the transmission fluid is extremely contaminated, there is likely a more serious issue with the transmission, which may require rebuilding or replacement.

A digital volt/ohmmeter can then be used to identify the circuit corresponding to shift solenoid valve A, and the solenoid, circuit, and harness can all be tested.

After any replacements, the mechanic will need to reset the fault codes again, restart the vehicle, and check if the code remains detected. This will help the mechanic know as soon as the issue is resolved.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing Code P0973

The most frequent mistake when evaluating code P0973 comes from not following the OBD-II fault code diagnostic protocol. Mechanics must adhere to the protocol throughout the inspection to ensure effective diagnosis and repairs. It is quite common for the shift solenoid to be mistakenly replaced when the actual problem was faulty wiring or insufficient transmission fluid.

How Severe Is Code P0973?

Usually, a vehicle with fault code P0973 will still be drivable, although the driver will likely experience transmission issues. Ignoring code P0973 can lead to severe transmission damage, so the vehicle should always be inspected when the code is detected.

What Repairs Can Fix Code P0973?

Possible repairs for fault code P0973 are:

• Replacement of shift solenoid A
• Replacement of wires, connectors, circuits, or harness
• Adding or replacing transmission fluid
• In rare cases, replacement of the PCM, TCM, or ECM

Shift solenoids are used by the ECU to force pressurized hydraulic fluid (aka transmission fluid) to move different parts like clutches and gears. If there is an abnormally high voltage signal coming from the shift solenoid A control circuit, a DTC P0974 will be recorded.

How severe is the code?

Diagnostic code P0974 is one of the most severe OBD2 codes you can have. When a shift solenoid goes bad, you may experience a number of driving issues, including harsh shifting and a complete inability to shift gears.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0974 include:

• Shifting is generally harsh
• The transmission cannot shift into gear

Causes

• Low or dirty transmission fluid
• Damaged connectors/wiring
• Faulty shift solenoid

How to diagnose the code?

The best way to start diagnosing an OBDII P0974 trouble code is to first check the transmission fluid level and condition. If that checks out, the wiring and connectors should be inspected for signs of damage and corrosion. After that, the valve body will need to be checked.

What repairs will fix P0974?

• Service the transmission
• Replace or repair damaged wiring/connectors
• Replace the shift solenoid

Related codes

P0972 – Shift solenoid “A” control circuit range/performance
P0973 – Shift solenoid “A” control circuit low

A shift solenoid is a small electromechanical device that the ECU uses to direct the flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid throughout the transmission. If it is not functioning properly, a DTC P0975 will be recorded.

How severe is the code?

Diagnostic code P0975 means that the computer is unable to control shifts, which will leave you with a number of driving issues, including a complete failure to shift gears.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0975 include:

• Generally harsh gear shifts
• The transmission cannot shift into gear

Causes

• Transmission fluid is too low or too dirty
• Damaged wiring and/or connectors
• Faulty shift solenoid

How to diagnose the code?

The first thing a technician should do when trying to diagnose an OBDII fault code P0975 is to check the level and condition of the transmission fluid. The next thing they should do is check the condition of the wiring and transmission connector cable harnesses. If no dirty transmission fluid, damaged wires, or broken connectors are found, the shift solenoid itself will need to be tested.

What repairs will fix P0975?

• Service the transmission
• Replace or repair damaged wires/connectors
• Replace the shift solenoid