P0960: Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit/Open OBD-II Trouble Code

The purpose of a pressure control solenoid is to modulate the hydraulic pressure inside the transmission. The presence of a P0960 DTC means that there is an open circuit somewhere between the solenoid and the ECU.

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What Transmission Do I Have?

How Serious is the Code?

The P0960 diagnostic trouble code is pretty serious, and the transmission problems that are behind it, will eventually cause serious drivability problems.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0960 include:

  • Slipping
  • Hard shifts
  • Transmission overheats
  • Stalling
  • Engine misfire-like symptoms
  • Limp mode

Causes

  • Dirty transmission fluid and filter
  • Damaged wiring and connectors
  • Failed pressure control solenoid
  • Failed transmission pump
  • Valve body failure
  • TCM/ECU problems

How to Diagnose the Code?

The first thing that should be checked when trying to diagnose a P0960 OBDII trouble code, is the level and condition of the transmission fluid. If the ATF is clean and bright, then the wiring and connectors along the transmission wiring harness will need to be checked for signs of damage and corrosion. Beyond this, the transmission will have to be opened up to troubleshoot the solenoids, valve body and TCM.

What Repairs Will Fix P0960?

  • Change the transmission fluid and filter
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors
  • Install new pressure control solenoid(s)
  • Repair or replace transmission pump
  • Repair or replace the valve body
  • Reprogram or replace the ECU or TCM

Related Codes

N/A

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?