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DTC codes / P09xx · Transmission / P0982

P0982Shift Solenoid 'D' Control Circuit Low

P0982 means the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a low-voltage condition on the control circuit for shift solenoid D, which is one of the solenoids that manages hydraulic pressure for gear shifts. The computer expects to see voltage within a specific range when commanding the solenoid, but the circuit is showing a short to ground or excessive current draw.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyProfessional
AreaTransmission

Symptoms you may notice

  • The check engine light or transmission warning light is illuminated.
  • The transmission may shift harshly or fail to shift into certain gears.
  • The vehicle may enter limp mode, limiting speed and gear selection.
  • Delayed or erratic engagement when shifting from park to drive or reverse.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the fault is intermittent.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty shift solenoid D, internally shorted or damaged.
  2. Damaged or chafed wiring in the solenoid control circuit, causing a short to ground.
  3. Corroded or loose electrical connector at the solenoid or TCM.
  4. Transmission fluid contaminated with debris, causing solenoid malfunction.
  5. Failed transmission control module (TCM) driver circuit.
  6. Internal transmission mechanical issues creating abnormal resistance in the solenoid circuit.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules for stored and pending codes, and record freeze-frame data to understand when the fault occurs.
  2. Inspect the solenoid D electrical connector and wiring harness for corrosion, chafing, or loose pins.
  3. Measure resistance of shift solenoid D at the transmission connector and compare to manufacturer specifications.
  4. Check the control circuit for a short to ground using a multimeter and wiring diagram.
  5. If the circuit tests good, remove the transmission pan and inspect the solenoid and valve body for debris or damage.
  6. Replace shift solenoid D if it fails electrical or mechanical testing, and change transmission fluid and filter as needed.
  7. Clear codes and perform a road test to verify the repair and ensure no other codes return.

What P0982 doesn't always mean

  • A low circuit code often points to a shorted solenoid, but chafed wiring near hot exhaust components or sharp edges is a frequent hidden cause that mimics solenoid failure.
  • Contaminated transmission fluid can cause solenoid D to stick or draw excessive current, so a fluid condition check is essential before condemning the solenoid.
  • Some vehicles use a single solenoid for multiple functions, so a P0982 may be accompanied by other shift solenoid codes that share a common power or ground circuit.
  • Intermittent faults may only appear when the transmission is hot or under specific load conditions, so a simple resistance check at room temperature can miss a failing solenoid.
  • The TCM driver circuit can fail and set this code even when the solenoid and wiring test good, so module testing should be part of a thorough diagnosis.

Can I keep driving with P0982?

You can usually drive the vehicle short distances to a repair shop, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing because the transmission may not shift properly and could enter limp mode. Prolonged driving with this code can cause further transmission damage, so schedule diagnosis soon.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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