What it means
The current through pressure control solenoid M does not match the commanded value within tolerance. Coil resistance drift or high-resistance contact.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
The TCM varies current to pressure control solenoid M to regulate pressure in a transmission circuit. This range or performance fault sets when measured current does not track the commanded value within the expected tolerance, which can result from coil drift or resistance at a connection.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Coil resistance changed by thermal stress
- High-resistance contact in solenoid connector
- Sensor element aged beyond calibration window
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 compare solenoid M's commanded current with available actual-current or pressure data to identify the conditions that trigger the mismatch.
- Inspect the solenoid M connector and harness for corrosion, loose terminals, fluid intrusion, or damage that could add resistance.
- Check circuit continuity and voltage drop under the specified test conditions, comparing results with the manufacturer's specification.
- Measure solenoid M coil resistance and check whether it changes abnormally under the specified temperature conditions.
- If the circuit and coil pass, use a supported actuator test and pressure data to distinguish an electrical mismatch from a sticking valve or hydraulic problem.
Common fixes
- Clean or repair a high-resistance solenoid M connector or terminal.
- Repair damaged or corroded wiring in the solenoid M control circuit.
- Replace solenoid M if coil resistance is outside the manufacturer's specification or shifts with temperature abnormally.
- Service or repair the valve body if electrical current is correct but solenoid M's pressure response remains out of range.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid towing and hard acceleration if the transmission shifts harshly or slips, and arrange diagnosis soon. Continued operation with pressure control outside its expected range can overheat or wear internal transmission components.
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.