P0976
Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit Low
Transmission
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P0976 means the transmission control module sensed low voltage on the control circuit for shift solenoid B. Shift solenoids route hydraulic pressure to engage gears, so a circuit fault can cause missed shifts or force the transmission into a protective failsafe (limp) mode. It's usually a failed solenoid or a short in its wiring, sometimes low fluid.
Medium
Can I keep driving? Limited — the transmission may not shift normally or may drop into limp mode (fixed gear); drivable short distances but repair it before it strands you.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Transmission won't shift through all gears
- Stuck in limp/failsafe mode (often one fixed gear)
- Harsh shifting or slipping
- Check-engine light on
Common causes
Most likely first
- Failed shift solenoid BLikely
- Wiring fault in the solenoid circuit (short to ground or open)Common
- Loose or corroded connector at the transmissionCommon
- Low or dirty transmission fluidLess often
- Faulty 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.
- Inspect the transmission connector and wiring to shift solenoid B for shorts, opens, and corrosion.
- Measure shift solenoid B resistance against spec; replace if it reads open, shorted, or out of range.
- Repair any damaged wiring, clear the code, and road-test through all gears.
- If solenoid and wiring check out, have the TCM tested.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0976?+
Short trips only. A shift solenoid fault can force limp mode, which limits gears — usable to get home but not for extended driving.
Can I just clear P0976?+
Clearing may temporarily restore normal shifting, but the code and limp mode return once the fault is detected again until it's repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P0976
Read & clear P0976 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