Engine-CodesPontiac – P0796 Pontiac

P0796 Pontiac Code - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Stuck Off

Quick Answer

The P0796 code for Pontiac indicates a problem with the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 being stuck off. Common causes include Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3, Electrical issues such as a short circuit or open circuit in the wiring, Low or contaminated transmission 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
P0796 Pontiac indicates Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Stuck Off.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3, Electrical issues such as a short circuit or open circuit in the wiring, Low or contaminated transmission 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.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 11, 2024
💬 Need more help? Ask Auto Expert for instant answers — it's free!
AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play

Code P0796 Pontiac Description

The P0796 code for Pontiac indicates a problem with the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 being stuck off. This valve is a crucial component of the transmission system, responsible for regulating the hydraulic pressure that controls gear shifting. When this solenoid valve is stuck in the off position, it can lead to issues with the transmission's ability to shift gears smoothly and efficiently. This can result in harsh or delayed shifting, poor acceleration, decreased fuel efficiency, and overall reduced performance of the vehicle.

OBDII Code P0796 Pontiac - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Stuck Off
P0796 Pontiac Code - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Stuck Off

Common Causes of P0796 Pontiac

  1. Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3
  2. Electrical issues such as a short circuit or open circuit in the wiring
  3. Low or contaminated transmission fluid
  4. Mechanical problems within the transmission system
  5. Software or programming issues in the vehicle's control module

Symptoms of P0796 Pontiac

  1. Harsh or delayed shifting
  2. Slipping or erratic gear changes
  3. Decreased fuel efficiency
  4. Vehicle stuck in one gear
  5. Illumination of the check engine light

How to Fix P0796 Pontiac

  1. Begin by diagnosing the specific cause of the issue using a scan tool to retrieve the trouble codes and perform a thorough inspection of the transmission system.
  2. Inspect the wiring and connections related to the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 to check for any damage or loose connections.
  3. Check the transmission fluid level and condition, ensuring it is at the proper level and not contaminated.
  4. If the solenoid valve is found to be faulty, it will need to be replaced with a new one. This may involve draining the transmission fluid, removing the transmission pan, and accessing the valve.
  5. After replacing the solenoid valve, refill the transmission fluid to the correct level and clear the trouble codes from the vehicle's computer system.

Cost to Fix P0796 Pontiac

The cost of repairing a Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 stuck off issue can vary depending on the specific cause of the problem and the labor rates at the auto repair shop. On average, the parts for this repair can range from $100 to $300, while the labor costs can be between $150 and $300. This puts the total repair cost for this issue at approximately $250 to $600. It is important to note that prices may differ based on location, vehicle make and model, and the extent of the repair needed. It is recommended to obtain quotes from local auto repair shops for a more accurate estimate.

Need more information about the P0796 Pontiac code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0796 Pontiac code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0796 Pontiac code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0796 Pontiac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0796 in a Pontiac related to the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 being stuck off?

- Common symptoms may include harsh shifting, delayed or erratic shifting, transmission slipping, and decreased fuel efficiency.

2. What are the possible causes of the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 being stuck off in a Pontiac triggering code P0796?

- Potential causes include a faulty pressure control solenoid valve, low transmission fluid levels, dirty transmission fluid, or wiring/connectivity issues.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code P0796 in my Pontiac myself?

- You can start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspecting the wiring connected to the pressure control solenoid valve, and performing a scan tool test to monitor the solenoid's operation.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Pontiac with OBDII code P0796 caused by the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 being stuck off?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this issue, as it can lead to further damage to the transmission and potentially result in a breakdown.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0796 in my Pontiac due to the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 being stuck off?

- The repair process typically involves replacing the faulty pressure control solenoid valve, ensuring proper transmission fluid levels and quality, and addressing any wiring or connectivity issues.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0796 related to the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 in a Pontiac?

- While some experienced DIYers may be able to replace the pressure control solenoid valve themselves, it's recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.

7. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0796 in a Pontiac caused by the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 issue?

- Regularly checking and maintaining proper transmission fluid levels and quality, along with timely transmission servicing, can help prevent issues leading to code P0796.

8. Will resetting the OBDII system clear code P0796 in my Pontiac related to the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 issue?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but it will likely reappear if the underlying issue with the pressure control solenoid valve is not addressed.

9. How long does it typically take for a mechanic to repair OBDII code P0796 in a Pontiac due to the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 issue?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the problem and the availability of parts, but it may take a few hours to a full day for a mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue.

10. Can OBDII code P0796 in a Pontiac caused by the Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 issue affect the overall performance of the vehicle?

- Yes, this issue can significantly impact the performance and drivability of the vehicle, leading to transmission problems and potential safety concerns.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0796 Pontiac OBDII Code

Code P0796 Pontiac comments

No comments found for this page.