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.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- easy
- Estimated cost
- $50 - $300 (parts and labor)
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What Are the Symptoms of P0803?
- 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
What Causes P0803? (Most Likely First)
- 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
Can I Still Drive with P0803?
Yes, but fix soon. P0803 is rated low severity. It is not an immediate stop-driving fault, but it will not clear itself — book the repair rather than ignoring the light.
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.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P0803?
-
Check the skip shift solenoid fuse in the fuse box
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Locate the skip shift solenoid on the transmission and check its connector
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Measure solenoid resistance with a multimeter and compare to specifications
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Test the circuit for continuity from the PCM to the solenoid
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
Which Vehicles Commonly Get P0803?
- 2005-2020 Chevrolet Corvette
- 2010-2020 Chevrolet Camaro SS
- 2005-2017 Ford Mustang GT
- 2008-2018 Dodge Challenger R/T
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