P0974

Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit High

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0974?

You can usually drive gently for short distances, but harsh shifts or limp mode strain the transmission. Fix it soon.

Q: Can I just clear P0974?

It will come back until the circuit fault or solenoid is repaired, because the TCM monitors this control circuit continuously.

Transmission Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P0974 means the transmission control module has seen high voltage (a likely short to power or open) on the control circuit for shift solenoid 'A'. That solenoid helps engage the correct gear, so the fault often shows up as harsh or missed shifts, and the transmission may enter a protective limp mode. The engine itself starts and runs normally.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but expect harsh or missed shifts and possible limp mode; repair soon to avoid added transmission wear.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

104

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0974 scans

P0977in 55.8% of scans

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 erratic shifting
Transmission slipping or holding a gear too long
Transmission stuck in limp mode

Common causes

Most likely first

Short to voltage in the shift solenoid 'A' control wiringLikely
Failed shift solenoid 'A'Common
Corroded or damaged connector at the transmissionCommon
Chafed or pinched wiring in the solenoid circuitLess often
Faulty transmission control module (TCM)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Scan for related transmission codes and review freeze-frame data.
Inspect the solenoid connector and harness for a short to power, corrosion, or damage; repair as needed.
Measure shift solenoid 'A' resistance against spec and replace it if out of range.
Check transmission fluid level and condition before condemning parts.
If wiring and solenoid check out, have the TCM evaluated. Clear the code and road-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0974?+

You can usually drive gently for short distances, but harsh shifts or limp mode strain the transmission. Fix it soon.

Can I just clear P0974?+

It will come back until the circuit fault or solenoid is repaired, because the TCM monitors this control circuit continuously.

Read & clear P0974 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