P0785 Chevrolet Code - 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical
Quick Answer
The P0785 Chevrolet code indicates a problem with the 3-2 shift solenoid circuit electrical in the transmission system. Common causes include Faulty 3-2 shift solenoid, Wiring or connector issues in the solenoid circuit, Low transmission fluid level or dirty fluid. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- P0785 Chevrolet indicates 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty 3-2 shift solenoid, Wiring or connector issues in the solenoid circuit, Low transmission fluid level or dirty fluid.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code P0785 Chevrolet Description
The P0785 Chevrolet code indicates a problem with the 3-2 shift solenoid circuit electrical in the transmission system. This solenoid is responsible for controlling the shifting between third and second gears in an automatic transmission. When this circuit has an electrical issue, it can lead to improper shifting, harsh shifting, or even a complete failure to shift gears. This can result in poor vehicle performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the transmission system if left unresolved.
Common Causes of P0785 Chevrolet
- Faulty 3-2 shift solenoid
- Wiring or connector issues in the solenoid circuit
- Low transmission fluid level or dirty fluid
- Transmission control module (TCM) malfunction
- Mechanical issues within the transmission
Symptoms of P0785 Chevrolet
- Harsh or delayed shifting between gears
- Failure to shift into second gear
- Engine stalling when shifting gears
- Transmission slipping
- Illumination of the Check Engine Light
How to Fix P0785 Chevrolet
- Perform a diagnostic scan to confirm the P0785 code and pinpoint the exact cause of the issue.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors in the 3-2 shift solenoid circuit for any damage or corrosion. Repair or replace as needed.
- Check and top up the transmission fluid level, and replace if it is dirty or contaminated.
- Test the 3-2 shift solenoid's functionality and replace if found to be faulty.
- Clear the diagnostic trouble codes and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.
Cost to Fix P0785 Chevrolet
The cost of repairing a P0785 Chevrolet code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the labor rates in your area. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for parts and labor. Keep in mind that prices may be higher at dealerships or in metropolitan areas, while independent shops may offer more affordable rates. It's recommended to get quotes from multiple auto repair shops to find the best deal.
When is the Code Detected?
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Frequently Asked Questions about P0785 Chevrolet Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0785 in a Chevrolet related to the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical issue?
Symptoms may include harsh shifting between gears, delayed shifting, transmission slipping, and the transmission getting stuck in a particular gear.
2. What are possible causes of OBDII code P0785 in a Chevrolet indicating a problem with the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical?
Potential causes could be a faulty 3-2 shift solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, low transmission fluid level, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0785 in my Chevrolet related to the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical issue?
Diagnostic steps may include conducting a thorough visual inspection of the wiring and connectors, checking the transmission fluid level and condition, and using a scan tool to analyze the transmission control module for specific fault codes.
4. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code P0785 indicating a problem with the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical?
It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this issue as it can lead to further damage to the transmission components and potentially cause unsafe driving conditions.
5. How can I repair OBDII code P0785 in my Chevrolet caused by the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical problem?
Repair options may include replacing the faulty 3-2 shift solenoid, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring the transmission fluid is at the correct level, and resetting the PCM after completing the repairs.
6. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code P0785 in a Chevrolet related to the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical issue?
DIY enthusiasts can start by checking the transmission fluid level, inspecting the wiring and connectors for visible damage, and clearing the fault code with a scan tool to see if it returns after driving the vehicle.
7. Can a professional mechanic help me fix OBDII code P0785 in my Chevrolet caused by the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical issue?
Yes, a qualified mechanic with experience in transmission systems can diagnose the problem accurately, perform the necessary repairs, and ensure proper functioning of the transmission to resolve the error code.
8. Will resetting the OBDII code P0785 in my Chevrolet related to the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical problem make it go away permanently?
Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will not resolve the problem permanently. It is essential to diagnose the root cause and perform the appropriate repairs to prevent the code from reappearing.
9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0785 in a Chevrolet due to the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical issue?
The cost of repairs can vary depending on the exact cause of the problem, labor rates in your area, and whether genuine Chevrolet parts are used. It is advisable to obtain a few quotes from different repair shops for a more accurate estimate.
10. Can OBDII code P0785 in a Chevrolet be related to other transmission issues besides the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical problem?
While P0785 specifically points to the 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical, it is essential to address any other related transmission issues that may be present to ensure the overall health and performance of the transmission system.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0785 Chevrolet OBDII Code
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truck doesn,t slip and no burn smell in oil shifts from 1 to 2 and has rev but won,t shift from 2 to3
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You could have a bad solenoid pack, Have a transmission specialist check your vehicle.
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My 2004 Silverado takes off in 3rd gear and does not shift at all unless you manually shift it the. It will only go to 2nd gear and you can speed up shift to 3rd it will shift but 2nd amd 3rd is all it has other than reverse I also have the p0785 code I hooked up my scanner and erased the code drove it the trans took off in first shifted to second then 3rd a.d stayed there in limp mode again with the p0785 code back what do you recommend. This transmission is rebuilt by a professional shop so I know everything on the inside other than. The electronics is new. Where should I start
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How long did you got the transmission rebuilt? what is the engine size of your Silverado?
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It is my step dad's truck he came in last week said his trans had went out. I had rode with him a couple days before and told him I didn't like the 2 3 shift and he said it gotten worse the last couple days so I didnt think much about it when he came in saying that the trans had started slipping the next morning I pulled the transmission transfer case and driveshafts out of it and at that point I found he had replaced the carrier bearing and had not put the driveshafts back together right and instead of the slip yoke sliding on amd out of each other the rear was pushing the front shaft into the back of the transfer case and had cracked the transfer case and ate up the driveshaft yoke that slides into the rear of the transfer case. So I ordered a new driveshaft yoke and took the transfer case to a friend that owns a transmission shop to see if he could replace the back housing half on it. Well the transfer case was trash. We ordered a used one from LKQ my friend at the trans shop tore down the transmission and when he did he called me and said that the trans looked OK but since he had it tore down and this is a truck that pulls a lawn care trailer around 5days a week it would still be a good idea to build it a d he and I figured the trouble must have been in the transfer case. I am figuring out now that yes the transfer case and driveshaft was bad but this p0785 code must have happened about the same time and with the truck taking off In 3rd gear not have no power taking off in high gear my 74 year old step dad thought it was slipping. The engine Is a 5.3 UPDATE I replaced the shift solenoids and wiring harness inside the trans and the problem. Is the same clear code and when I start the truck and put it into gear the code returns
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I checked a national database of repair for your vehicle and the P0785 code, and 90% of the times the problem was the shift solenoid (the other 10% was the transmission filter and the pan gasket). Any other codes? in my opinion if you have already replace the solenoid and wires, then it's possible that something went wrong during the transmission rebuilt.
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No other codes present the guy that built it is the one that replaced the solenoids and wiring harness inside the trans. He has built transmissions for 30 years and assures me that the problem is not with the trans itself. That it is going to be the neutral safety switch, the ignition switch, or the trans controller or wiring between those somewhere. I need a wiring diagram to be able to do some testing. I used to use alldata and it would give you a flow chart to tackle problems with. I would really love to have one of those.
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The ignition switch is mention many times on the database, but when other codes are present.
Here is the wire diagram from the service manual. I hope that helps

Click here to enlarge image
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