What it means
The upshift/skip-shift solenoid control circuit signal is below the expected level. The code does not identify the specific electrical cause.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The upshift or skip-shift solenoid control circuit carries the TCM’s command to operate a gearbox shift interlock. P080C sets when the monitored circuit signal is lower than expected, which can prevent the solenoid from applying or releasing the interlock. The code alone does not pinpoint whether the cause is a grounded wire, poor connection, or another circuit fault.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Control wire shorted to ground
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
- Harness chafing through insulation
Symptoms
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
- Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
- Slipping or shuddering during gear changes
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and check transmission live data for the skip-shift command and related codes to establish when the low signal occurs.
- Inspect the solenoid connector and harness for chafing, exposed wire, corrosion, or pins contacting ground.
- With the circuit safely isolated as specified by the manufacturer, check the control wire for a short to ground and inspect connector contact quality.
- Measure the solenoid and circuit response using the manufacturer's test procedure to distinguish a wiring fault from a failed solenoid.
- If the wiring and solenoid pass, check the TCM output and its power and ground connections.
Common fixes
- Repair chafed insulation or a control wire shorted to ground.
- Clean or repair corroded, loose, or damaged connector terminals.
- Replace the skip-shift solenoid if it fails the manufacturer's circuit tests.
- Repair a TCM output fault only after confirming the wiring, solenoid, power, and grounds.
Can I keep driving?
If the transmission still shifts normally, limit driving to necessary trips and avoid situations requiring rapid gear changes. Do not continue if gears are unavailable, the transmission slips, or it enters a fixed gear; arrange prompt diagnosis.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.