OBD-II fault code

P27BB: Pressure Control Solenoid N Electrical

What it means

The transmission control module monitors the electrical circuit for pressure control solenoid N. It sets this code when the circuit has an electrical fault, such as an open or short.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light

How it works

Pressure control solenoid N is an electrically operated valve that the TCM uses to regulate transmission pressure. This code sets when the TCM detects an electrical fault in solenoid N’s circuit, such as an open coil or a wire shorted to ground or battery voltage.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Open solenoid coil
  2. Short to ground or battery in the harness

Symptoms

  • Transmission warning light may illuminate
  • Harsh or delayed shifting
  • Transmission may enter limp mode

How to diagnose it

  1. Save freeze-frame data and scan for other solenoid circuit codes to determine whether the fault is isolated to solenoid N or affects a shared power or ground.
  2. With the ignition off as specified by the manufacturer, inspect solenoid N’s connector and transmission harness for disconnected plugs, damaged insulation, corrosion or fluid intrusion.
  3. Check the solenoid N coil and circuit continuity using the manufacturer’s test procedure, comparing results with its specification to identify an open coil or wiring break.
  4. Test the control wire for shorts to ground or battery voltage, isolating the solenoid and TCM as directed by the wiring diagram.
  5. If the solenoid and harness pass, check TCM power, ground and output operation before concluding the module is at fault.

Common fixes

  • Reconnect or clean the solenoid N connector if contact is poor.
  • Repair an open, grounded or battery-shorted section of the solenoid N harness.
  • Replace pressure control solenoid N if its coil is electrically open or otherwise outside specification.
  • Repair the TCM circuit or replace the TCM only if the solenoid and wiring pass the specified checks.

Can I keep driving?

Avoid towing, steep climbs and hard acceleration if the transmission shifts harshly or enters limp mode; loss of solenoid control can affect pressure and gear changes. If it slips or cannot maintain drive, stop safely and arrange assistance.

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