Gate Select Actuator Circuit Open
The P0910 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Gate Select Actuator Circuit Open. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No — stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $300 - $1,500 (parts and labor)
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What Are the Symptoms of P0910?
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Automated transmission cannot select gear gates
- Vehicle stuck in one gear or neutral
- No response when shifting
What Causes P0910? (Most Likely First)
- Failed gate select actuator motor Very High
- Open circuit in gate select actuator wiring High
- Disconnected connector at gate select actuator Moderate
- TCM output driver circuit failure Low
Can I Still Drive with P0910?
No — stop driving. P0910 is rated critical severity. Continuing to drive in this state risks further damage — get it looked at before your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a gate select actuator?
In automated manual transmissions, the gate select actuator moves the shift mechanism left and right to select the appropriate gear gate (like moving a manual shifter side to side). A separate actuator then moves within the gate to engage the gear.
Can I drive with P0910?
No, without the gate select actuator, the transmission cannot change gears. The vehicle must be towed.
Are gate select actuators expensive?
The actuator itself is typically $200 to $600. Labor can be significant as the actuator is often inside the transmission housing.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P0910?
-
Check the gate select actuator connector is properly connected
-
Measure actuator motor resistance with a multimeter
-
Test for continuity in the wiring between TCM and actuator
-
Command the actuator using a bidirectional scan tool
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 P0910?
- 2010-2018 Volkswagen Polo (ASG)
- 2008-2016 Smart ForTwo
- 2012-2018 Fiat 500 (MTA)
- 2010-2016 Opel Corsa (EasyTronic)
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