P0760 critical

Shift Solenoid C Malfunction

The P0760 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Shift Solenoid C Malfunction. This is a critical severity code.

My Garage →
Keep driving?
No -- stop driving
DIY difficulty
hard
Estimated cost
$150 - $600 (parts and labor)
Check Your Fluid First
ANCEL AD310 OBD-II Scanner

Read and clear transmission codes. Many trans codes are caused by low or burnt fluid -- check level and color before assuming the worst.

Check Price on Amazon

Affiliate link -- we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Read Transmission Codes
LAUNCH CRP123X (Reads All Systems)

Basic scanners only read engine codes. This reads transmission, ABS, and airbag too.

Check Price on Amazon

Affiliate link -- we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Transmission stuck in one gear
  • Harsh shifting
  • Limp mode activated

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

  • Failed C shift solenoid Very High
  • Wiring issue in solenoid C circuit High
  • Contaminated transmission fluid clogging solenoid Moderate
  • TCM solenoid C driver fault Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

  1. Measure shift solenoid C resistance -- typically 10-25 ohms

  2. Command solenoid C with scan tool and listen for click

  3. Inspect solenoid wiring at transmission connector

  4. Check transmission fluid for contamination

  5. Replace shift solenoid C if electrically or mechanically faulty

Common Fixes by Vehicle

What techs usually find when diagnosing P0760 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:

2001-2014 Honda Accord/Civic Automatic Advanced DIY

Shift solenoid C (SS-C) on Honda automatics controls overdrive engagement. A failing SS-C causes the transmission to stay in third gear (limp mode). The solenoid is on the valve body. Replace the entire solenoid set while the pan is off -- the labor is the same and prevents future failures.

Labor: 2-4 hours
2004-2016 Toyota Highlander/Sienna U151E Advanced DIY

Shift solenoid S3 on the Toyota U151E transmission sticks closed from degraded fluid. Perform a drain and fill with Toyota WS ATF and drive 500 miles. If the code returns, remove the trans pan and replace the solenoid. Check the wiring harness connector at the case for ATF contamination.

Labor: 3-5 hours
2005-2016 Nissan Frontier/Xterra RE5R05A Advanced DIY

Shift solenoid C failure on the RE5R05A 5-speed automatic is common at 100K+ miles. The solenoid sticks from varnish and debris. Replace all solenoids and install a remanufactured valve body for a lasting repair. Also replace the transmission filter and use genuine Nissan Matic S fluid.

Labor: 4-6 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with code P0760?

Do not drive -- have the vehicle towed. Shift solenoid C malfunction can cause the transmission to be stuck in the wrong gear or shift unpredictably.

What is shift solenoid C?

Shift solenoid C is an electro-hydraulic valve inside the transmission that controls fluid flow to engage specific gear combinations. It is commanded by the TCM to achieve proper shift timing.

Can I replace shift solenoid C without removing the transmission?

On most vehicles, shift solenoids are accessible by removing the transmission pan and sometimes the valve body. The transmission does not need to be removed from the vehicle.

Sources

This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.

See All Codes & Fixes for Your Vehicle

Explore More

Was this helpful?

Share carcodefinder.com with a friend who needs to decode their check engine light.