AutoCodes – GMC – P0971 2016 GMC Sierra

P0971 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage

Quick Answer

The pressure control solenoid 3 is part of the control solenoid valve assembly which has no serviceable parts. Common causes include Low transmission fluid, Faulty Control Solenoid Valve Assembly, Control Solenoid Valve Assembly harness is open or shorted. 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: P0971 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid, Faulty Control Solenoid Valve Assembly, Control Solenoid Valve Assembly harness is open or shorted.
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 227

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 Mar 25, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0971 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The pressure control solenoid 3 is part of the control solenoid valve assembly which has no serviceable parts. The normally high-pressure control solenoid 3 regulates and directs the pressure control solenoid 3 oil pressure to the 4-5-6 clutch regulator valve and 4-5-6 clutch boost valve. Increasing pressure control solenoid 3 oil pressure increases oil pressure to the 4-5-6 clutch assembly. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) varies the current to the pressure control solenoid 3 through a low side driver. Decreasing the current to the pressure control solenoid 3 increases pressure control solenoid 3 oil pressure by closing OFF the solenoid exhaust port. Increasing the current to the pressure control solenoid 3 decreases pressure control solenoid 3 oil pressure by opening the solenoid exhaust port. Pressure control solenoid 3 power is supplied by the Transmission Control Module through a high side driver. The high-side driver protects the circuit and components from excessive current flow. If excessive current flow is detected, the high side driver will turn OFF. When the fault is corrected the high-side driver will reset.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Transmission Control Module detects an open or short to voltage on the pressure control solenoid 3 control circuit for 1 s.

OBDII Code P0971 2016 GMC Sierra - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0971 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0971 2016 GMC Sierra?

Low transmission fluid
Faulty Control Solenoid Valve Assembly
Control Solenoid Valve Assembly harness is open or shorted
Control Solenoid Valve Assembly circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0971 2016 GMC Sierra?

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 P0971 2016 GMC Sierra 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.

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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 P0971 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does code P0971 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Code P0971 indicates a "Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit High Voltage," meaning the transmission control module (TCM) has detected an issue with the electrical circuit of solenoid 3.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0971 code?

Common symptoms include harsh or erratic shifting, transmission slipping, poor fuel economy, and the illumination of the check engine light.

3. What causes a P0971 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty pressure control solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning TCM, or low transmission fluid levels.

4. How can I fix a P0971 code on my GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve inspecting and repairing wiring or connectors, replacing the pressure control solenoid, topping off or changing the transmission fluid, or reprogramming or replacing the TCM if needed.

5. Can I drive with a P0971 code on my GMC Sierra?

Driving with a P0971 code is not recommended, as it can lead to transmission damage or unsafe driving conditions due to improper shifting.

6. How do I diagnose a P0971 code?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, visually inspecting wiring and connectors, testing the solenoid with a multimeter, and checking the transmission fluid level and condition.

7. Is the pressure control solenoid expensive to replace on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost of replacing a pressure control solenoid can range from $200 to $400, depending on labor rates and whether other transmission components need attention.

8. Can low transmission fluid cause a P0971 code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can cause improper solenoid function and trigger a P0971 code.

9. Does a P0971 code always mean the solenoid is bad?

No, the code can also result from wiring issues, a faulty TCM, or other electrical problems, so proper diagnosis is essential.

10. Will clearing the P0971 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the root cause will not fix the issue, and the code will likely return. Repairs must be completed to resolve the problem.