P0803 low

1-4 Upshift (Skip Shift) Solenoid Control Circuit Malfunction

The P0803 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: 1-4 Upshift (Skip Shift) Solenoid Control Circuit Malfunction. This is a low severity code.

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Keep driving?
Yes, but fix soon
DIY difficulty
easy
Estimated cost
$50 - $300 (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.

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LAUNCH CRP123X (Reads All Systems)

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Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Skip shift (1-4 upshift) feature not working
  • Forced upshift from 1st to 4th gear at low RPM
  • Skip shift indicator light stays on or off permanently

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

  • Faulty skip shift solenoid Very High
  • Open or short in skip shift solenoid wiring High
  • Blown fuse for skip shift circuit Moderate
  • ECM or PCM software issue Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

  1. Check the skip shift solenoid fuse in the fuse box

  2. Locate the skip shift solenoid on the transmission and check its connector

  3. Measure solenoid resistance with a multimeter and compare to specifications

  4. Test the circuit for continuity from the PCM to the solenoid

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 1-4 skip shift feature?

The skip shift feature forces an upshift from 1st gear directly to 4th gear under light throttle and low speed conditions to improve fuel economy. It is common on V8 manual transmission vehicles.

Can I just disable the skip shift?

Many owners install a skip shift eliminator, which is a simple plug-in device that bypasses the solenoid. However, this may not clear the P0803 code if the solenoid circuit is actually faulty.

Is P0803 harmful to my vehicle?

No, P0803 is a low-severity code. The skip shift feature is a fuel economy measure, and the vehicle will drive normally without it.

Sources

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

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