AutoCodes – Generic – P0966

P0966 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Control Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The Pressure Control (PC) Solenoid Valve an electronic pressure regulator that controls transmission line pressure based on current flow through its coil windings. Common causes include Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid 'B', Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' harness is open or shorted, Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0966 indicates Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Control Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid 'B', Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' harness is open or shorted, Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 22,207

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 04, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0966 Description

The Pressure Control (PC) Solenoid Valve an electronic pressure regulator that controls transmission line pressure based on current flow through its coil windings. As current flow is increased, the magnetic field produced by the coil moves the solenoid’s plunger further away from the exhaust port. Opening the exhaust port decreases the output fluid pressure regulated by the PC solenoid valve, which ultimately decreases line pressure. The line pressure solenoid valve regulates the oil pump discharge pressure to suit the driving condition in response to a signal sent from the Transmission Control Module (TCM).

OBDII Code P0966 - Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Control Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0966 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Control Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0966?

Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid 'B'
Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' harness is open or shorted
Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0966?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0966 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0966 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0966 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0966 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0966 Acura — A/T Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 'B' Circuit Low
P0966 Buick — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0966 Cadillac — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0966 Chevrolet — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0966 Dodge — Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Control Circuit Low
P0966 GMC — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0966 Honda — A/T Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 'B' Circuit Low
P0966 Pontiac — Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0966 Saturn — Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0966 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0966 mean?

P0966 indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a low voltage or electrical issue in the Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' control circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0966?

Symptoms may include transmission slipping, harsh shifting, poor fuel efficiency, limp mode activation, or the illumination of the check engine light.

3. What causes the P0966 code to occur?

Common causes include a faulty pressure control solenoid, damaged or corroded wiring, a defective PCM, or low transmission fluid levels.

4. Can driving with a P0966 code damage my vehicle?

Yes, driving with this code can damage the transmission over time if the issue is not addressed, as improper pressure control can lead to further mechanical problems.

5. How is the P0966 code diagnosed?

A technician will typically use a scan tool to verify the code, inspect wiring and connectors for damage, test the solenoid's resistance, and check the transmission fluid level and condition.

6. How do you fix the P0966 code?

Repairs may include replacing the pressure control solenoid, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming the PCM if necessary.

7. Can low transmission fluid trigger the P0966 code?

Yes, low or dirty transmission fluid can affect the solenoid's operation and cause the PCM to register this code.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P0966 code?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $500, depending on whether the solenoid, wiring, or PCM needs replacement.

9. Can I reset the P0966 code without repairing the issue?

While you can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, it will likely return if the underlying problem isn't resolved.

10. Is the P0966 code specific to any vehicle make or model?

No, P0966 is a generic OBDII code and can appear on any vehicle with an automatic transmission, but the exact diagnostic and repair steps may vary by manufacturer.