AutoCodes – Cadillac – P0801 Cadillac

P0801 Cadillac Code - Reverse Inhibit Solenoid Control Circuit

Quick Answer

An ignition voltage is supplied to the Reverse Inhibit solenoid. Common causes include Faulty Reverse Inhibit Solenoid, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid 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: P0801 Cadillac indicates Reverse Inhibit Solenoid Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Reverse Inhibit Solenoid, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Reverse Inhibit Solenoid 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 2,573

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 May 08, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0801 Cadillac Description

An ignition voltage is supplied to the Reverse Inhibit solenoid. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the solenoid by grounding the control circuit via an internal switch called a driver. The driver supplies the ground for the component being controlled. Each driver has a fault line which the PCM monitors. When the PCM commands a component ON, the voltage of the control circuit should be low (near 0 volts). When the PCM commands the control circuit to a component OFF, the voltage potential of the circuit should be high (near battery voltage). If the fault detection circuit senses a voltage other than what is expected, the fault line status changes causing the P0801 code to set.

OBDII Code P0801 Cadillac - Reverse Inhibit Solenoid Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0801 Cadillac Code - Reverse Inhibit Solenoid Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0801 Cadillac?

Faulty Reverse Inhibit Solenoid
Reverse Inhibit Solenoid harness is open or shorted
Reverse Inhibit Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0801 Cadillac?

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 P0801 Cadillac 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 P0801 Cadillac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0801 in a Cadillac related to the Reverse Inhibit Solenoid Control Circuit?

The common symptoms include issues with shifting gears, difficulty engaging reverse gear, and the transmission not responding properly.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P0801 in a Cadillac?

The code P0801 is usually caused by a faulty reverse inhibit solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, or a malfunction in the transmission control module (TCM).

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0801 in my Cadillac?

Diagnosing the code involves using a scan tool to retrieve the trouble codes, checking the wiring and connectors for any visible damage, and testing the reverse inhibit solenoid for proper function.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Cadillac with the OBDII code P0801 present?

It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with the code P0801 as it can lead to further transmission issues and potential safety hazards.

5. Can I repair the OBDII code P0801 in my Cadillac myself?

While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to replace the reverse inhibit solenoid or repair wiring issues, it is recommended to seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and proper repair.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P0801 in a Cadillac?

The cost of repairing the code P0801 can vary depending on the underlying cause, but it may range from $200 to $500 for parts and labor.

7. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code P0801 in a Cadillac?

Regularly checking the transmission fluid levels, servicing the transmission as per manufacturer recommendations, and addressing any transmission issues promptly can help prevent the occurrence of code P0801.

8. Can a faulty reverse inhibit solenoid cause other transmission problems in a Cadillac?

Yes, a faulty reverse inhibit solenoid can lead to various transmission issues, including difficulty shifting gears, harsh shifting, and even transmission failure if left unaddressed.

9. How long does it take to repair the OBDII code P0801 in a Cadillac?

The repair time for the code P0801 can vary depending on the exact cause and the extent of the repairs needed, but it may take a few hours to a day for a professional technician to complete the job.

10. Will resetting the OBDII code P0801 in my Cadillac make the issue go away?

Resetting the code may temporarily clear the check engine light, but it will not fix the underlying problem causing the code. It's important to diagnose and repair the issue to prevent further damage to the transmission.