AutoCodesChevrolet – P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Shift Solenoid Valve 1 Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The shift solenoid 1 is part of the control solenoid valve assembly which has no serviceable parts. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve. 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
P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Shift Solenoid Valve 1 Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve.
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 285
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 P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The shift solenoid 1 is part of the control solenoid valve assembly which has no serviceable parts. The shift solenoid 1 is a normally closed ON/OFF solenoid and is controlled by the Transmission Control Module through a low side driver. When the shift solenoid 1 is energized, shift solenoid 1 fluid pressure is directed to the clutch select valve 2. Power to the shift solenoid 1 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 control solenoid valve assembly detects an internal low voltage electrical malfunction of the shift solenoid 1 control circuit when the shift solenoid 1 is commanded OFF for 2 seconds.
OBDII Code P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Shift Solenoid Valve 1 Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Shift Solenoid Valve 1 Control Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • Low transmission fluid level
  • Dirty transmission fluid
  • Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve
  • Transmission Control Solenoid Valve harness is open or shorted
  • Transmission Control Solenoid Valve circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0973 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0973 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

P0973 indicates a low voltage issue in the control circuit of Shift Solenoid Valve 1, which is part of the transmission system.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0973 in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include transmission shifting issues, harsh or delayed shifts, the transmission stuck in one gear, or the illumination of the check engine light.

3. What causes the P0973 code in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include a faulty shift solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors in the solenoid circuit, low transmission fluid, or a malfunctioning TCM (Transmission Control Module).

4. Can I drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with a P0973 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it can lead to further transmission damage and unsafe driving conditions due to shifting problems.

5. How do I diagnose the P0973 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves checking the shift solenoid wiring and connectors, testing the solenoid for proper function, inspecting the transmission fluid level, and using a scan tool to monitor TCM signals.

6. How can I fix the P0973 code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty shift solenoid, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning or reconnecting connectors, or reprogramming/replacing the TCM.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P0973 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on whether the issue is with the solenoid, wiring, or TCM.

8. Can low transmission fluid cause the P0973 code?

Yes, low transmission fluid can cause improper solenoid function, leading to the P0973 code.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P0973 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

You’ll need a scan tool or OBDII scanner, a multimeter for electrical testing, and possibly a transmission fluid dipstick.

10. Will clearing the P0973 code fix the issue?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will not fix the problem, and the code is likely to return.

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