Pressure Control Solenoid "A" Control Circuit/Open
P0960 indicates the PCM detected an open circuit or control problem with the transmission's Pressure Control Solenoid A, which regulates hydraulic pressure for smooth gear shifts. This causes the transmission to enter limp mode and may result in harsh shifting, slipping, or overheating.
What You Might Notice
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Transmission shifts hard or bangs into gear
- Transmission slips during acceleration or shifts
- Increased fuel consumption
- Transmission overheating or entering limp mode
Most Common Causes
- 1
Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid A
The solenoid coil has failed or the solenoid is stuck open/closed, preventing proper hydraulic pressure control. This is the most common cause of this code.
- 2
Wiring or Connector Issues
Corroded, disconnected, or damaged wiring/connectors to the solenoid result in an open circuit that the PCM cannot energize the solenoid through.
- 3
Low Transmission Fluid
Insufficient fluid level prevents proper solenoid operation and hydraulic pressure control, triggering the code.
- 4
PCM or Transmission Control Module Malfunction
A faulty PCM/TCM may incorrectly signal an open circuit even when the solenoid is functioning normally.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Check Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid A — The solenoid coil has failed or the solenoid is stuck open/closed, preventing proper hydraulic pressure control. This is the most common cause of this code.
- 2
Check Wiring or Connector Issues — Corroded, disconnected, or damaged wiring/connectors to the solenoid result in an open circuit that the PCM cannot energize the solenoid through.
- 3
Check Low Transmission Fluid — Insufficient fluid level prevents proper solenoid operation and hydraulic pressure control, triggering the code.
- 4
Check PCM or Transmission Control Module Malfunction — A faulty PCM/TCM may incorrectly signal an open circuit even when the solenoid is functioning normally.
How to Fix It
- 1
Replace Pressure Control Solenoid A
Remove and replace the faulty pressure control solenoid with a new OEM or equivalent unit. Refill transmission fluid to proper level after replacement.
- 2
Inspect and Repair Wiring/Connectors
Examine the solenoid harness and connectors for corrosion, damage, or loose connections. Clean connectors thoroughly or replace damaged wiring as needed.
- 3
Check and Top Off Transmission Fluid
Verify transmission fluid level and condition. Add the correct fluid type to bring level to the full mark if low. Low fluid can cause solenoid operation issues.
- 4
Test PCM/TCM
If solenoid, wiring, and fluid are normal, have the PCM/TCM diagnosed with specialized transmission control module testing equipment to rule out internal control faults.
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