AutoCodes – Generic – P0979

P0979 Code - Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) commands gear shifts by turning the shift solenoid valves "ON/OFF". Common causes include Faulty Shift Solenoid 'C', Shift Solenoid 'C' harness is open or shorted, Shift 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: P0979 indicates Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Shift Solenoid 'C', Shift Solenoid 'C' harness is open or shorted, Shift 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 20,385

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 11, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0979 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) commands gear shifts by turning the shift solenoid valves "ON/OFF". When there is an open or short circuit in any shift solenoid valve circuit, the ECM detects the problem and illuminates the engine light and stores the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), and the ECM performs the fail-safe function and turns the other shift solenoids valves in good condition "ON/OFF".

OBDII Code P0979 - Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0979 Code - Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0979?

Faulty Shift Solenoid 'C'
Shift Solenoid 'C' harness is open or shorted
Shift Solenoid 'C' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0979?

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 P0979 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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Information for Specific Makes

P0979 Acura — Shift Solenoid Valve 'C' Short
P0979 Buick — Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
P0979 Cadillac — Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
P0979 Chevrolet — Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0979 Dodge — Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
P0979 Ford — Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
P0979 GMC — Shift Solenoid Valve 3 Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0979 Honda — Shift Solenoid Valve 'C' Short
P0979 Lincoln — Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low
P0979 Mercury — Shift Solenoid 'C' Control Circuit Low

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.