P0961

Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit Range/Performance

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0961?

Short trips are usually fine, but harsh shifting or limp mode can accelerate transmission wear, so repair it soon.

Q: Can I just clear P0961?

It will return once the solenoid or its circuit acts up again; clearing only helps confirm the fault after a real repair.

Transmission Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P0961 means the transmission control module sees the "A" pressure control solenoid responding outside its expected range. This solenoid regulates hydraulic line pressure for shifting, so a range/performance fault usually shows up as harsh, delayed, or slipping shifts rather than an engine problem. The engine still runs and starts normally.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but expect harsh or delayed shifts and possible limp mode; get it looked at soon to avoid transmission wear.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

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
Delayed or harsh gear changes
Transmission slipping or holding gears too long
Transmission may drop into limp (fail-safe) mode

Common causes

Most likely first

Failed pressure control solenoid ALikely
Damaged wiring or connector in the solenoid control circuitCommon
Loose or corroded electrical connectionsCommon
Low or contaminated transmission fluid affecting hydraulic responseLess often
Faulty transmission control module (TCM)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data and check transmission fluid level and condition first.
Inspect the solenoid wiring and connector for damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
Measure the solenoid resistance and control-circuit voltage against spec.
Replace the pressure control solenoid A if it is out of range.
If wiring and solenoid test good, have the TCM diagnosed. Clear and road-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0961?+

Short trips are usually fine, but harsh shifting or limp mode can accelerate transmission wear, so repair it soon.

Can I just clear P0961?+

It will return once the solenoid or its circuit acts up again; clearing only helps confirm the fault after a real repair.

Read & clear P0961 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