P0796

Pressure Control Solenoid C Performance/Stuck Off

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0796?

Short term, yes, but incorrect line pressure can make the transmission slip and overheat. Limit driving and get it repaired to avoid clutch damage.

Q: Can I just clear P0796?

It comes back until the solenoid, fluid, or valve-body fault is fixed. Checking the fluid and the solenoid connector first is the cheapest approach.

Transmission Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P0796 means pressure control solenoid C isn't performing as commanded, or is stuck in the off (non-applying) position. This solenoid regulates the hydraulic line pressure that engages gears, so a fault causes harsh or delayed shifting, slipping, or limp mode. The engine still runs — the problem is in the transmission, commonly a stuck solenoid, dirty fluid, or a sticking valve body.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Usually driveable, but the pressure control solenoid isn't regulating properly — expect harsh shifting, slipping, or limp mode, and repair it soon to protect the transmission.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

108

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Harsh or delayed shifting
Transmission slipping or failing to shift
Limp mode (reduced gear range)
Reduced fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Faulty pressure control solenoid C (stuck or worn)Likely
Low or dirty transmission fluid restricting the solenoidCommon
Open or shorted wiring in the solenoid C circuitCommon
Sticking or worn valve bodyLess often
Faulty transmission control module (TCM)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check transmission fluid level and condition first — service it if low, burnt, or dirty.
Read freeze-frame data and scan for related pressure/shift-solenoid codes.
Inspect the solenoid C wiring and connector for damage or corrosion.
Test the pressure control solenoid C and inspect the valve body for sticking.
If fluid and electrics are good, verify TCM operation.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0796?+

Short term, yes, but incorrect line pressure can make the transmission slip and overheat. Limit driving and get it repaired to avoid clutch damage.

Can I just clear P0796?+

It comes back until the solenoid, fluid, or valve-body fault is fixed. Checking the fluid and the solenoid connector first is the cheapest approach.

Read & clear P0796 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX