Engine-CodesGeneric – P0971

P0971 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High

Quick Answer

The diagnostic trouble code P0971 indicates a problem with the Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit in the transmission. Common causes include Faulty pressure control solenoid 'C', Wiring issues or poor electrical connections, Defective transmission fluid pressure sensor. 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
P0971 indicates Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty pressure control solenoid 'C', Wiring issues or poor electrical connections, Defective transmission fluid pressure sensor.
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 09, 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 P0971 Description

The diagnostic trouble code P0971 indicates a problem with the Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit in the transmission. The control circuit is responsible for regulating the hydraulic pressure in the transmission, which is crucial for smooth gear shifts and overall performance. When the control circuit is reading high, it means that the voltage or current levels in the solenoid control circuit are outside of the expected range.

OBDII Code P0971 - Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High
P0971 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High

Common Causes of P0971

  1. Faulty pressure control solenoid 'C'
  2. Wiring issues or poor electrical connections
  3. Defective transmission fluid pressure sensor
  4. Malfunctioning transmission control module
  5. Low transmission fluid levels or dirty transmission fluid

Symptoms of P0971

  1. Erratic shifting or hesitation when changing gears
  2. Harsh or rough gear changes
  3. Transmission slipping or loss of power
  4. Transmission overheating
  5. Illumination of the check engine light

How to Fix P0971

  1. Begin by conducting a thorough inspection of the pressure control solenoid 'C', wiring connections, transmission fluid pressure sensor, and transmission control module.
  2. Test the pressure control solenoid 'C' for proper operation and replace if necessary.
  3. Check and repair any damaged wiring connections or electrical issues in the control circuit.
  4. Inspect the transmission fluid level and quality, performing a fluid flush and filter replacement if needed.
  5. Clear the diagnostic trouble codes and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P0971

The typical repair costs for resolving a Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High code can range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, the specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary based on factors such as location, vehicle make and model, and engine type. It's advisable to check local rates for a more precise estimate.

When is the Code Detected?

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) has detected an internal low voltage electrical malfunction of the Pressure Control (PC) solenoid control circuit

Need more information about the P0971 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0971 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0971 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Code P0971 Information for Specific Makes

  • P0971 Acura — Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High
  • P0971 Buick — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage
  • P0971 Cadillac — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage
  • P0971 Chevrolet — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage
  • P0971 Dodge — Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High
  • P0971 GMC — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage
  • P0971 Honda — Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High
  • P0971 Pontiac — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage
  • P0971 Saturn — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage
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 P0971 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0971 (Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit High)?

- Common symptoms include harsh shifting, transmission slippage, decreased fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0971?

- The code P0971 can be triggered by issues such as a faulty pressure control solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, low transmission fluid level, or a malfunctioning transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0971?

- Diagnosing the code may involve conducting a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors, checking the transmission fluid level and condition, and using a diagnostic scanner to read live data and monitor the pressure control solenoid operation.

4. What should I do if I encounter OBDII code P0971?

- If you encounter code P0971, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to the transmission. Consult a professional mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair.

5. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P0971 present?

- While it may be possible to drive with the code present, it is not recommended as it can lead to transmission issues and potential damage. It is best to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0971?

- The cost of repairing code P0971 can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, labor rates in your area, and the cost of parts. It is advisable to obtain quotes from different repair shops to compare prices.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0971 without fixing the underlying issue?

- While clearing the code may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, it will not solve the underlying problem causing code P0971. It is crucial to address the root cause of the issue for proper functioning of the transmission.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0971 at home?

- Repairing code P0971 may require advanced knowledge of automotive systems and specialized tools. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair to ensure the issue is resolved correctly.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance measures to avoid OBDII code P0971?

- Regularly servicing and checking the transmission fluid level, addressing any leaks promptly, and following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule can help prevent issues like code P0971 from occurring.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0971?

- The repair time for code P0971 can vary based on the specific cause of the issue, availability of parts, and the workload of the repair shop. In some cases, the repair may be completed within a few hours, while more complex issues may take longer to resolve.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0971 OBDII Code

Code P0971 comments

No comments found for this page.