What it means
Shift solenoid K stays activated when commanded off. Gear element remains engaged.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Shift solenoid K is an electrically controlled valve in the transmission valve body that routes hydraulic pressure to a gear element. The transmission control module (TCM) compares its command with electrical and transmission-response data. This code sets when solenoid K remains active after the TCM commands it off, so the gear element it controls may stay engaged.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Solenoid spool stuck open
- TCM output driver stuck on
- Carbon or debris buildup preventing free movement
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
- Use a scan tool to record freeze-frame data and check whether the TCM commanded solenoid K off when the fault occurred.
- Review live data for solenoid K commands and available gear or pressure feedback to see whether the affected gear element appears to remain engaged.
- Inspect the transmission connector and solenoid K wiring for damage, fluid contamination, loose pins, or corrosion.
- Check whether the fault returns after clearing codes and reproducing the shift conditions recorded in the freeze frame.
- Test solenoid K operation and its control circuit against the manufacturer's specifications to distinguish a sticking valve from an electrical fault.
- If the circuit tests correctly, inspect the valve body and hydraulic passages for a sticking solenoid K spool or debris.
Common fixes
- Repair loose, damaged, or contaminated solenoid K wiring and connectors.
- Clean or service the valve body if debris is preventing solenoid K from moving freely.
- Replace a sticking or failed shift solenoid K.
- Repair the TCM output driver if testing confirms it continues to energize solenoid K when commanded off.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid driving if the transmission slips, shudders, shifts harshly, or enters limp mode; continued use can worsen transmission damage or leave you without the expected gear. If it shifts normally, limit driving and 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.