AutoCodes – GMC – P0976 2016 GMC Sierra

P0976 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Shift Solenoid 'B' Short To Ground

Quick Answer

The shift solenoid 2 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: P0976 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Shift Solenoid 'B' Short To Ground.
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 200

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 P0976 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The shift solenoid 2 is part of the control solenoid valve assembly which has no serviceable parts. The shift solenoid 2 is a normally closed ON/OFF solenoid and is controlled by the Transmission Control Module through a low side driver. When the shift solenoid 2 is energized, shift solenoid 2 fluid pressure is directed to the clutch select valve 3. Power to the shift solenoid 2 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 internal low voltage electrical malfunction of the shift solenoid 2 control circuit when the shift solenoid 2 is commanded OFF for 2 seconds.

OBDII Code P0976 2016 GMC Sierra - Shift Solenoid 'B' Short To Ground - AutoCodes.com — P0976 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Shift Solenoid 'B' Short To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0976 2016 GMC Sierra?

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 P0976 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 P0976 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.

Need more information about the P0976 2016 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 P0976 2016 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P0976 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0976 indicates a problem with the Shift Solenoid 'B' circuit, specifically a short to ground, which affects the transmission's ability to shift properly.

What are the symptoms of code P0976 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include harsh or delayed shifting, stuck in a specific gear, transmission slipping, or the Check Engine Light being illuminated.

What causes the P0976 code to appear on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include damaged wiring or connectors in the shift solenoid circuit, a faulty Shift Solenoid 'B,' or internal transmission issues.

Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P0976 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it may cause further transmission damage or unsafe driving conditions due to shifting issues.

How do I diagnose code P0976 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, test the shift solenoid for proper function, and use a diagnostic scanner to confirm the issue.

What tools are needed to fix a P0976 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

You may need a diagnostic scanner, multimeter, basic hand tools, and possibly a transmission fluid drain pan if solenoid replacement is required.

How much does it cost to repair the P0976 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs can vary, ranging from $100-$400 for wiring repairs or solenoid replacement, but may increase for more significant transmission issues.

Can a low transmission fluid level cause the P0976 code?

Low fluid is unlikely to cause this code directly, but it can lead to other transmission problems that may contribute to solenoid issues.

How do I reset the P0976 code after repairs on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Use an OBDII scanner to clear the code after verifying the issue is resolved, or disconnect the battery for a few minutes as a temporary reset.

Is replacing the shift solenoid the only solution for the P0976 code?

Not always; the problem could be related to wiring, connectors, or a short in the circuit, so a thorough diagnosis is essential before replacing parts.