P0920
Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open
Transmission / automated shifter
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P0920 means the transmission control module detects an open circuit in the control wiring for the gear shift forward actuator. On automated-manual transmissions this actuator engages forward gears, so an open circuit can prevent shifting or lock the transmission in one gear. The engine still starts and runs — this is a shift-actuator circuit fault, not an engine problem.
Medium
Can I keep driving? The engine starts, but the transmission may not shift or stick in one gear — have it checked before driving far.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Transmission won't shift properly, or won't shift at all
- Harsh shifting or slipping
- Fail-safe (limp) mode
Common causes
Most likely first
- Open or damaged wiring in the gear shift forward actuator circuitLikely
- Loose or corroded connectors at the actuatorCommon
- Failed gear shift forward actuatorCommon
- Failed transmission control module (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the forward actuator connector and wiring for an open, damage, or corrosion.
- Measure the actuator control circuit for continuity and correct resistance with a multimeter.
- Confirm the actuator receives its command and ground during a shift request.
- Replace the gear shift forward actuator if it is open or unresponsive with wiring confirmed good. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0920?+
The engine runs, but if the shifter can't engage forward gears you may be stuck, so limit driving until it's diagnosed.
Can I just clear P0920?+
It will clear, but an open control circuit returns immediately until the actuator or wiring is repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P0920
Read & clear P0920 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