What it means
The control module detects a low electrical level in the shift solenoid F control circuit.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Shift solenoid F is an electrically operated valve used to control transmission fluid flow during shifting. This code sets when the control module detects the solenoid F control circuit at a lower electrical level than expected, often because the wire is grounded or the solenoid coil is shorted.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Control wire shorted to ground
- Internal short in coil
- 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
- Save freeze-frame data and check live transmission data for solenoid F commands and shifts that coincide with the low-circuit fault.
- Inspect the solenoid F connector and harness for a wire rubbed through to ground, fluid intrusion, corrosion, or bent or pushed-back terminals.
- Use the wiring diagram to check the solenoid F control wire for an unintended short to ground, following the manufacturer's test procedure.
- Test the solenoid F coil and connector circuit for a short or resistance outside the manufacturer's specification.
- If the wiring and solenoid pass, verify the control module's output and grounds using the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Repair the solenoid F control wire if it is shorted to ground.
- Clean or repair corroded or damaged solenoid F connector terminals.
- Replace shift solenoid F if its coil tests shorted or out of specification.
- Repair the harness or connector if testing finds excessive resistance or an intermittent contact.
- Repair or replace the control module only after its circuit and output have been confirmed faulty.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid hard acceleration, towing, and continued driving if the transmission shifts harshly, slips, or enters limp mode. A solenoid F circuit fault can disrupt gear changes, and slipping may cause additional transmission damage.
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.