What it means
The control module detects a low electrical level in the shift solenoid D control circuit.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
Shift solenoid D is an electrically operated valve used to control transmission fluid flow during gear changes. The transmission control module monitors its control circuit and sets P0982 when the circuit signal is lower than expected, which may occur with a short to ground or damaged wiring.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Short 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
- Check freeze-frame and live transmission data for when P0982 set, and look for related D solenoid or shared circuit codes.
- Inspect the D solenoid harness for insulation rubbed through to ground, and check the connector for corrosion, loose fit, or damaged pins.
- With the circuit isolated according to the manufacturer's procedure, measure the D solenoid coil and compare its resistance with the manufacturer's specification.
- Test the D control wire for a short to ground and check for excessive resistance or an intermittent fault while gently moving the harness.
- If the solenoid and wiring pass, inspect the control module connector and D circuit terminal for a grounded or poor connection.
Common fixes
- Repair chafed D solenoid wiring that is contacting ground.
- Clean or replace corroded or damaged terminals in the D circuit.
- Replace shift solenoid D if its coil fails the manufacturer's specification.
- Repair a verified fault in the control module connector or circuit.
Can I keep driving?
If the transmission shifts poorly, slips, or becomes stuck in one gear, avoid towing, steep routes, and hard acceleration, and limit driving. Ongoing slipping can overheat or damage the transmission; stop if the vehicle cannot shift safely.
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.