AutoCodesGeneric – P0970

P0970 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' 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 'C', Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' harness is open or shorted, Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' 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
P0970 indicates Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid 'C', Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' harness is open or shorted, Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' 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 24,482
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 04, 2022
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Code P0970 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 P0970 - Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com
P0970 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0970?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0970?

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 P0970 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 P0970 code?

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Get the P0970 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

  • P0970 Acura — Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
  • P0970 Buick — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
  • P0970 Cadillac — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
  • P0970 Chevrolet — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
  • P0970 Dodge — Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
  • P0970 GMC — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
  • P0970 Honda — Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
  • P0970 Pontiac — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
  • P0970 Saturn — Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 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 P0970 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0970?

- Common symptoms include harsh shifting, transmission slipping, decreased fuel efficiency, and the transmission going into limp mode.

2. What causes the Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low code (P0970)?

- The code P0970 is usually caused by issues such as a faulty pressure control solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors, low transmission fluid levels, or a malfunctioning transmission control module.

3. How serious is OBDII code P0970?

- OBDII code P0970 should be addressed promptly as it can lead to transmission issues and potentially cause further damage if left unresolved.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P0970 triggered?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with the P0970 code triggered, as it can lead to further damage to the transmission and potentially leave you stranded on the road.

5. How do I diagnose the Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low code (P0970)?

- Diagnosing the P0970 code typically involves using a scan tool to read the code, checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the pressure control solenoid for proper operation.

6. What are the repair options for OBDII code P0970?

- Repair options for the P0970 code may include replacing the pressure control solenoid, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, topping up or changing the transmission fluid, or reprogramming the transmission control module.

7. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0970?

- The cost to fix OBDII code P0970 can vary depending on the underlying cause, parts needed for repair, and labor costs. It is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

8. Can I reset the OBDII code P0970 without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code using a scan tool, it is not recommended to reset the code without addressing the underlying issue, as it will likely reappear and potentially worsen over time.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P0970?

- The repair time for OBDII code P0970 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of repairs needed. It is best to consult with a mechanic for a more accurate time estimate.

10. Is OBDII code P0970 a common issue in certain vehicle makes and models?

- The P0970 code can occur in various vehicle makes and models, particularly in those equipped with automatic transmissions and electronic control systems.

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