P0976

Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit Low

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0976?

Short trips only. A shift solenoid fault can force limp mode, which limits gears — usable to get home but not for extended driving.

Q: Can I just clear P0976?

Clearing may temporarily restore normal shifting, but the code and limp mode return once the fault is detected again until it's repaired.

Transmission Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P0976 means the transmission control module sensed low voltage on the control circuit for shift solenoid B. Shift solenoids route hydraulic pressure to engage gears, so a circuit fault can cause missed shifts or force the transmission into a protective failsafe (limp) mode. It's usually a failed solenoid or a short in its wiring, sometimes low fluid.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Limited — the transmission may not shift normally or may drop into limp mode (fixed gear); drivable short distances but repair it before it strands you.

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

Transmission won't shift through all gears
Stuck in limp/failsafe mode (often one fixed gear)
Harsh shifting or slipping
Check-engine light on

Common causes

Most likely first

Failed shift solenoid BLikely
Wiring fault in the solenoid circuit (short to ground or open)Common
Loose or corroded connector at the transmissionCommon
Low or dirty transmission fluidLess 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.
Inspect the transmission connector and wiring to shift solenoid B for shorts, opens, and corrosion.
Measure shift solenoid B resistance against spec; replace if it reads open, shorted, or out of range.
Repair any damaged wiring, clear the code, and road-test through all gears.
If solenoid and wiring check out, have the TCM tested.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0976?+

Short trips only. A shift solenoid fault can force limp mode, which limits gears — usable to get home but not for extended driving.

Can I just clear P0976?+

Clearing may temporarily restore normal shifting, but the code and limp mode return once the fault is detected again until it's repaired.

Read & clear P0976 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