P0797
Pressure Control Solenoid C Stuck On
Transmission
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P0797 means pressure control solenoid C is stuck in the energized position, so the transmission can't properly regulate hydraulic line pressure. That often causes harsh or missing shifts, slipping, and extra heat. Typical causes are a stuck or shorted solenoid, a wiring fault, dirty fluid, or a sticking valve body.
Medium
Can I keep driving? The transmission may shift harshly, slip, or refuse to shift because line pressure is wrong — drivable short-term, but repair it before it overheats or wears the transmission.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
- Transmission slipping or feeling like it won't grab
- Transmission running hot
- Reduced fuel economy
Common causes
Most likely first
- Pressure control solenoid C stuck on or shortedLikely
- Wiring or connector fault holding the solenoid energizedCommon
- Low or contaminated transmission fluidCommon
- Sticking valve body / pressure control valveLess often
- 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 first.
- Inspect the solenoid connector and wiring for shorts, chafing, or corrosion.
- Test the pressure control solenoid C resistance and operation; replace if stuck on.
- Inspect the valve body / pressure control valve for sticking, especially if fluid is dirty.
- If the circuit and solenoid check out, evaluate the TCM. Clear and road-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0797?+
Short trips are usually okay, but wrong line pressure can make the transmission slip and overheat. Get it repaired before longer drives to avoid internal damage.
Can I just clear P0797?+
It returns as soon as the solenoid is commanded and stays stuck on. Clearing only resets the light temporarily.
Related codes
Often seen with P0797
Read & clear P0797 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX