P0956
Auto Shift Manual Mode Circuit Range/Performance
Transmission
Generic OBD-II
Low
What it means
P0956 means the transmission control module sees an out-of-range or implausible signal from the auto shift manual mode circuit — the switch that lets you shift gears manually through the +/- gate or paddles. The automatic transmission still works normally; it's the manual shifting feature that misbehaves, usually because of a worn switch or its wiring.
Low
Can I keep driving? Yes — the transmission still shifts automatically; only the manual/sport shift mode (the +/- gate or paddles) may not respond correctly.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Manual/sport shift mode won't engage or responds erratically
- Paddle or +/- gate gear requests ignored or inconsistent
- Check-engine light on
- Transmission stays in normal automatic mode
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty or worn auto shift manual mode selector switchLikely
- Wiring or connector fault (short, open, corrosion) in the switch circuitCommon
- Poor ground or loose connector at the selector assemblyCommon
- Faulty transmission control module (TCM)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and confirm the fault is in the manual-mode selector circuit, not the main range sensor.
- Inspect the manual-mode selector switch and its connector for damage, wear, or corrosion.
- Check the circuit wiring end to end for shorts, opens, and bad grounds; repair as needed.
- If the switch and wiring are good, have the TCM tested. Clear and re-test through the manual gate.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0956?+
Yes. The transmission still shifts automatically in Drive; only the manual/sport shift feature is affected, so there's no immediate risk.
Can I just clear P0956?+
You can, but it will return whenever the system sees the faulty selector signal again until the switch or wiring is repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P0956
Read & clear P0956 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