OBD-II fault code

P0999: Shift Solenoid F Control Circuit High

What it means

The control module detects a high 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 that helps control transmission fluid flow for gear changes. This code sets when the control module detects a higher electrical level than expected in the solenoid F control circuit, which can happen with a short to battery voltage or an open coil.

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 review live transmission data for solenoid F commands and shift problems associated with the fault.
  2. Inspect the solenoid F connector and harness for damaged insulation, wiring touching a power feed, corrosion, or terminals that are loose or pushed back.
  3. Using the wiring diagram, check the solenoid F control wire for a short to battery voltage according to the manufacturer's procedure.
  4. Test the solenoid F coil and circuit for an open or resistance outside the manufacturer's specification.
  5. If the wiring and coil test correctly, check the control module output and related connections before condemning the module.

Common fixes

  • Repair the solenoid F control wire if it is shorted to battery voltage.
  • Repair loose, corroded, or damaged terminals at the solenoid F connector.
  • Replace shift solenoid F if its coil is open or outside specification.
  • Repair an open or damaged section of the solenoid F circuit harness.
  • Repair or replace the control module if testing confirms its output is causing the high circuit reading.

Can I keep driving?

Limit driving if shifts are harsh, delayed, slipping, or the vehicle is stuck in one gear; arrange a tow if it cannot shift predictably. Continued slipping or incorrect shifts can overheat or damage the transmission.

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