P2790
Gate Select Direction Circuit
Transmission controls
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P2790 is set when the transmission controller detects a fault in the gate-select direction circuit — the actuator and sensing that move the shift mechanism between gear "gates" on automated-manual and dual-clutch gearboxes. A fault here can cause harsh or missed shifts and may force the transmission into a protective limp mode, so it should be diagnosed before it strands you.
Medium
Can I keep driving? Sometimes limited — on automated-manual/dual-clutch gearboxes a gate-select fault can cause harsh or missed shifts or limp mode; drive gently and get it checked.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missed gear changes
- Transmission may drop into limp/failsafe mode (fixed gear)
- Warning message or flashing gear indicator
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty gate-select actuator or its position sensorLikely
- Open, shorted, or chafed wiring in the gate-select circuitCommon
- Corroded or loose connector at the shift actuatorCommon
- Internal shift-mechanism fault inside the transmissionLess often
- Faulty TCM (least likely)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Scan for all transmission codes and read freeze-frame to see the operating condition.
- Inspect the gate-select actuator connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or looseness.
- Measure the circuit for opens and shorts against the service manual values.
- Test the actuator/position sensor; replace it if it's out of range.
- If wiring and actuator check out, have the internal shift mechanism and TCM evaluated. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P2790?+
Short trips at low speed may be fine, but harsh or missed shifts and limp mode mean you should get it diagnosed promptly to avoid being stranded or damaging the gearbox.
Can I just clear P2790?+
It will come back if the actuator or wiring is faulty. This is a shift-control circuit, so fix the root cause rather than just clearing it.
Related codes
Often seen with P2790
Read & clear P2790 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