OBD-II fault code

P08DC: Shift Solenoid K Control Circuit High

What it means

Voltage on the shift solenoid K control line is above the expected window. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

The TCM controls shift solenoid K through an electrical line that energizes the valve when a particular hydraulic route is needed. This code sets when voltage on that control line rises above the expected range, which may result from a short to battery power, an open solenoid coil, or a poor connection.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Control wire shorted to B+
  2. Open solenoid coil
  3. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance

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

  1. Record freeze-frame data and note whether the TCM was commanding solenoid K on or off when the high-voltage fault occurred.
  2. Check live solenoid K circuit readings, if available, for voltage that remains high despite changes in the TCM command.
  3. Inspect the solenoid K harness for contact with a power wire and examine the connector for corrosion, fluid, or loose pins.
  4. Test the solenoid K coil for an open circuit and the control wire for a short to battery voltage, using the manufacturer's procedure.
  5. If the coil and wiring pass, check connector contact and the TCM output circuit against the manufacturer's specifications.

Common fixes

  • Repair a solenoid K control wire shorted to battery power.
  • Restore secure, clean contact at the solenoid K connector.
  • Replace solenoid K if its coil is open.
  • Repair the TCM output circuit if testing confirms it is causing the high control voltage.

Can I keep driving?

Avoid driving if the transmission is slipping, shuddering, or shifting harshly; an unexpected gear state can worsen wear or cause limp mode. If it still shifts normally, restrict driving and have the high-voltage circuit fault checked soon.

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.

Codes for the same component