What it means
A general fault in pressure control solenoid K. Detected via electrical resistance, response to commanded duty cycle, or downstream pressure measurement.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Pressure control solenoid K regulates hydraulic pressure in the transmission in response to TCM commands. The TCM compares solenoid K’s electrical behavior and commanded response with expected pressure behavior; this code sets when its overall response is out of range, which can reflect coil resistance drift or a worn valve-body bore.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Aged solenoid coil resistance drift
- Worn valve body bore around the solenoid
Symptoms
- Check-engine or transmission warning light
- Harsh or delayed shifts
- Transmission may slip or hesitate
- Transmission may enter limp mode
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and scan transmission codes, then review solenoid K commands and any available pressure data to see when the fault occurs.
- Check the transmission fluid level and condition using the vehicle maker’s procedure, since poor fluid condition can affect hydraulic response.
- Inspect solenoid K’s connector and harness for looseness, corrosion, damaged insulation, or fluid contamination.
- Measure solenoid K coil resistance and compare it with the manufacturer’s specification, checking whether the reading changes as the coil warms if the fault is temperature-related.
- If electrical checks pass, compare commanded and observed pressure response using the applicable scan data or pressure test procedure to assess the valve body and solenoid bore.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure the solenoid K connector, or repair damaged wiring.
- Replace solenoid K if its coil resistance is outside the manufacturer’s specification or drifts abnormally.
- Service the transmission fluid if it is degraded or contaminated, following the vehicle maker’s requirements.
- Repair or replace the valve body if wear around solenoid K prevents it from controlling pressure.
Can I keep driving?
Limit driving, avoid towing and hard acceleration, and stop if the transmission slips badly or loses drive. Continued use can worsen clutch or transmission damage, and limp mode may restrict shifting.
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.