P0960 OBD-II Trouble Code: Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit/Open

P0960 code definition

The P0960 code is a generic powertrain code related to the transmission, including pressure faults and sensor failures. In this case, the engine control module (ECM) has received a signal noting that the pressure control solenoid for the A control circuit is open.

What the P0960 code means

Electronically controlled valves shift and maintain the correct gears needed for optimal performance. The valve body contains both the shift solenoid valves and pressure control solenoid valves. The shift solenoid valves control the activation (or deactivation) of such items as the clutch, brakes, and engaging/disengaging the gears.

A vehicle will use one or more pressure control solenoid valves to control the hydraulic pressure in a vehicle’s automatic transmission. Hydraulic pressure is generated at the pump, which is driven by the engine through the torque converter housing.

A code P0960 will be stored when the transmission control module sees a fault with one of the valves, including a voltage signal stating that the A control circuit is remaining open, or not receiving the reference voltage needed to operate. .

What causes the P0960 code?

Several problems may cause a P0960 code including:

• Low transmission fluid
• Dirty transmission fluid
• Damaged, open, shorted, or corroded wiring or related electrical components
• Poor electrical connection
• Damaged or defective pressure control solenoid
• Damaged or defective ECM (rare)

What are the symptoms of the P0960 code?

Symptoms of a P0960 code may include:

• Check engine or warning light may illuminate
• Vehicle may shift harsh or rough
• Possible transmission slippage
• Vehicle may not shift into or out of gear

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0960 code?

A mechanic may use several methods to diagnose a P0960 trouble code, including:

• Utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for a stored P0960 trouble code
• Check transmission fluid levels and quality
• Check transmission pan for clutch or other debris
• Perform a visual check of wiring and related electrical circuitry and components related to the pressure control solenoid A control circuit
• Check the wire harness from the transmission control module to the transmission for damage
• Check the transmission control module and transmission connectors for corrosion or damaged pins
• Perform a circuit check and measure resistance across the terminals
• Repeat test at transmission connector is resistance doesn’t match manufacturer specifications

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0960 code

At times, the pressure control solenoid or transmission control module may be replaced when the fault lies in a defective harness or poor electrical connection. It is recommended to thoroughly diagnose a P0960 trouble code for all possible causes before replacing more expensive components.

How serious is the P0960 code?

Because a vehicle’s safe driving operation most likely will be impacted due to faults that store a P0960 code, this code is considered a potentially serious code. When this code appears, it is recommended to immediately take your vehicle to your local service center or mechanic for repair and diagnosis.

What repairs can fix the P0960 code?

Several repairs can fix a P0960 trouble code and include:

• Fill transmission fluid to manufacturer specifications
• Perform a full transmission flush, if necessary
• Repair or replace damaged or defective wiring and related electrical components
• Repair a damaged or defective wire harness from the transmission control module to the transmission
• Repair any bent or damaged pins
• Repair or replace damaged or defective pressure control solenoid
• Repair or replace damaged transmission control module
• Repair or replace damaged or defective ECM (rare)
• Clear all codes, test-drive the vehicle, and rescan to see if any codes reappear

Additional comments related to a P0960 code

As with any transmission-related trouble code, be sure to check the transmission fluid level and quality prior to any repairs.

Need help with a P0960 code?

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