P0979 Chevrolet Code - Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
Quick Answer
The P0979 code for Chevrolet indicates a problem with the Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit, specifically, that the voltage is lower than the expected range. Common causes include Faulty shift solenoid valve 3, Wiring issues or poor electrical connections, Low transmission fluid level or contaminated 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
- P0979 Chevrolet indicates Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty shift solenoid valve 3, Wiring issues or poor electrical connections, Low transmission fluid level or contaminated 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 P0979 Chevrolet Description
The P0979 code for Chevrolet indicates a problem with the Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit, specifically, that the voltage is lower than the expected range. This solenoid is responsible for controlling the flow of transmission fluid to engage or disengage specific gears in the transmission. When the voltage is too low, it can lead to issues with shifting gears smoothly, potentially causing erratic or harsh shifting, slipping gears, or even the inability to shift at all. If left unresolved, it can lead to further damage to the transmission system and affect the overall performance and drivability of the vehicle.
Common Causes of P0979 Chevrolet
- Faulty shift solenoid valve 3
- Wiring issues or poor electrical connections
- Low transmission fluid level or contaminated fluid
- Faulty transmission control module (TCM)
- Internal transmission damage or mechanical issues
Symptoms of P0979 Chevrolet
- Rough or harsh shifting
- Delayed or erratic shifting
- Slipping gears
- Transmission not shifting into certain gears
- Illumination of the Check Engine Light
How to Fix P0979 Chevrolet
- Begin by diagnosing the exact cause of the low voltage issue with shift solenoid valve 3 using a scan tool to read the trouble codes and perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connections.
- Test the shift solenoid valve 3 to determine if it is functioning properly. If it is faulty, replace it with a new one.
- Check the transmission fluid level and condition, topping it off or performing a fluid flush and filter replacement if necessary.
- Inspect the wiring harness for any damage or corrosion, repairing or replacing any damaged wires or connectors.
- If all else fails, consider checking the TCM and internal transmission components for any faults or damage.
Cost to Fix P0979 Chevrolet
The cost of repairing a Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage issue can vary depending on the specific cause of the problem and the labor rates in your area. On average, the cost of replacing a shift solenoid valve can range from $150 to $300 for the part alone, with additional costs for labor. Overall, the total repair cost including parts and labor could range from $300 to $600 or more. It's recommended to get a few quotes from different auto repair shops to compare prices and find the best option for your specific situation.
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Information for Specific Chevrolet Models
- P0979 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
- P0979 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
- P0979 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
- P0979 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
- P0979 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
Frequently Asked Questions about P0979 Chevrolet Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0979 in a Chevrolet vehicle?
- Common symptoms include harsh shifting, transmission slipping, delayed shifting, and the vehicle going into limp mode.
2. What usually causes the P0979 trouble code to appear in a Chevrolet vehicle?
- The P0979 code is typically caused by a faulty shift solenoid valve 3, issues with the wiring or connectors related to the solenoid, or a malfunction in the transmission control module.
3. How can I diagnose the Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage issue in my Chevrolet?
- To diagnose the issue, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble codes, inspect the wiring and connectors for any damage or corrosion, and test the shift solenoid valve 3 for proper operation.
4. Can I continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code P0979 present?
- It is not recommended to continue driving with the P0979 code present, as it can lead to further damage to the transmission and potentially leave you stranded on the road.
5. What are some repair tips for fixing the Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage problem in a Chevrolet?
- Repair tips include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the faulty shift solenoid valve 3, and resetting the trouble codes after the repair.
6. Is it possible to clear the P0979 trouble code in a Chevrolet without fixing the underlying issue?
- While you can clear the trouble code using an OBDII scanner, it is not recommended as the issue causing the code will persist and may lead to more significant problems in the future.
7. Are there any preventive measures I can take to avoid OBDII code P0979 in my Chevrolet?
- Regular maintenance, such as checking transmission fluid levels and quality, can help prevent issues that may trigger the P0979 trouble code.
8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage problem in a Chevrolet?
- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix the issue by following repair guides and being cautious when working on the transmission system.
9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0979 in a Chevrolet at a professional mechanic's shop?
- The cost of repairing the P0979 code can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the labor rates of the mechanic, but it typically ranges from $200 to $500.
10. Is OBDII code P0979 a serious issue that requires immediate attention in a Chevrolet?
- Yes, the P0979 trouble code should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the transmission and ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
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