P0980

Shift Solenoid C Control Circuit High

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0980?

Short trips are usually fine, but erratic shifting and limp mode add wear, so repair it promptly.

Q: Can I just clear P0980?

It returns until the circuit fault or solenoid is repaired; the transmission may keep entering failsafe mode.

Transmission Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P0980 means the transmission control module has detected a high-voltage condition (an open or short to power) in the control circuit for shift solenoid 'C'. That solenoid helps engage and release specific gears, so the fault can cause erratic or delayed shifts, slipping, or a protective limp mode. It's an electrical circuit fault rather than internal mechanical damage.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Usually driveable, but erratic shifting or a stuck-gear limp mode can strain the transmission — get it fixed before long trips.

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

Improper or erratic gear shifting
Delayed or prolonged shifts
Slipping or inability to engage certain gears
May default to limp/failsafe mode
Check-engine light on

Common causes

Most likely first

Open or short-to-power in the shift solenoid 'C' circuitLikely
Failed shift solenoid 'C'Common
Damaged wiring or corroded connectorsCommon
Failed 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 solenoid 'C' wiring and connector for opens or a short to power.
Measure the solenoid resistance against spec; replace if out of range.
Repair the high-voltage circuit fault, then clear and road-test.
If wiring and solenoid are good, suspect the TCM.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0980?+

Short trips are usually fine, but erratic shifting and limp mode add wear, so repair it promptly.

Can I just clear P0980?+

It returns until the circuit fault or solenoid is repaired; the transmission may keep entering failsafe mode.

Read & clear P0980 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