AutoCodesGMC – P0970 2018 GMC Sierra

P0970 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low 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
P0970 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low 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 174
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 25, 2024
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Code P0970 2018 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 a short to ground on the pressure control solenoid 3 control circuit for 1 s.
OBDII Code P0970 2018 GMC Sierra - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0970 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0970 2018 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 P0970 2018 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 P0970 2018 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.

Need more information about the P0970 2018 GMC Sierra code?

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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 P0970 2018 GMC Sierra Code

What does OBDII code P0970 mean for a 2018 GMC Sierra?

P0970 indicates a low voltage issue in the control circuit for Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 3, which helps regulate transmission fluid pressure.

What are common symptoms of P0970 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include harsh or delayed shifting, slipping gears, transmission overheating, or the check engine light being illuminated.

What causes P0970 on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include wiring issues like damaged or corroded wires, a faulty pressure control solenoid, a defective transmission control module (TCM), or low transmission fluid levels.

Can driving with P0970 damage my GMC Sierra's transmission?

Yes, continued driving with this code may lead to transmission damage due to improper fluid pressure regulation and overheating.

How do I diagnose P0970 on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the solenoid's resistance, and checking the transmission control module for faults.

Is P0970 related to low transmission fluid?

Low transmission fluid can contribute to P0970, as inadequate fluid pressure may affect solenoid operation.

How much does it cost to fix P0970 on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary but may range from $200 to $600 for solenoid replacement, with higher costs for wiring repairs or TCM replacement.

Can a faulty pressure control solenoid cause P0970?

Yes, a defective solenoid can fail to regulate fluid pressure properly, triggering the low voltage code.

Do I need to reprogram the TCM if it’s replaced for P0970?

Yes, replacing the transmission control module often requires reprogramming to ensure compatibility with the vehicle.

What tools are needed to troubleshoot P0970 on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

You’ll need a diagnostic scanner, multimeter, and possibly specialty tools for accessing the transmission wiring or solenoid.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0970 2018 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

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